Sports scientists and trainers around the world are now beginning to recommend that injured athletes undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as it is becoming an increasingly popular form of treatment. Team physicians, owners, and athletes from NASCAR to the National Football League (NFL) are reporting the positive effects of HBOT.

Several English football teams used HBOT to treat their players this year, apparently with excellent results. In one case, an athlete with ligament damage reduced recovery time by 33 percent with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and a second player receiving HBOT recovered in only four days even though doctors had predicted a three week lay-off. In recent world news, an Israeli fencer, 27-year-old Delila Hatuel, whose participation in the Beijing Olympics was in doubt after a knee injury recuperated after undergoing HBOT and was able to compete in the 2008 Olympic Games.

How does it help injuries? Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps athletes at all skill levels heal quickly and get back to their favorite pursuit. Many sports injuries involve strains, sprains, and fractures which naturally cause swelling and edema (accumulation of excess fluid in connective tissue). These natural reactions to injury compress blood vessels and restrict the vital flow of oxygen-carrying plasma and red blood cells to the injury site. Cells and tissues surrounding the injury site become starved for oxygen, which impedes healing.  In extreme cases, cell and tissue death can occur. HBOT saturates all body fluids with up to 20x the normal oxygen level and quickly reduces swelling and inflammation. The red blood cells become more malleable as well, increasing their ability to penetrate restricted blood vessels. Life-giving oxygen is thus able to reach the injury site so that cells can heal and the immune system can fully defend the body against harmful agents. Healing time is reduced significantly, and athletes resume play more quickly.

Haelen Hyperbarics makes no claims as to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy efficacy for any indication, other than the thirteen indications approved by the FDA. Information within this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your personal physician or any other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.