Inflammation and Hyperbarics

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, stress, or infection—but when it

becomes chronic, it can lead to ongoing pain, swelling, fatigue, and slower healing. Many

types of inflammation involve reduced oxygen delivery to tissues, which limits the body’s

ability to repair itself. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) increases the amount of oxygen

dissolved in the bloodstream by placing the body under higher atmospheric pressure. This

allows oxygen to reach inflamed or oxygen-poor areas more efficiently, supporting the

body’s ability to regulate inflammation and restore healthier tissue function (Thom, 2009;

Heyboer et al., 2017).

1. Regulating the Body’s Inflammatory Response

Chronic inflammation often results from an overactive immune response, where the body

continues releasing inflammatory molecules even after the initial trigger has resolved. HBOT

helps regulate this process by reducing the activity of certain inflammatory pathways and

supporting a more balanced immune response. This may help calm persistent inflammation

and promote a more stable environment for healing (Thom, 2009).

2. Improving Oxygen Delivery to Inflamed Tissues

Inflamed tissues often become swollen and compressed, limiting oxygen flow and making it

harder for the body to heal. HBOT increases oxygen saturation in the blood and allows

oxygen to penetrate deeper into swollen or compromised areas. This enhanced oxygen

delivery supports tissue repair, cellular recovery, and healthier overall function (Heyboer et

al., 2017).

3. Supporting Cellular Repair and Recovery

Inflammation can damage cells and slow the body’s natural regenerative processes. HBOT

supports cellular repair by helping cells restore normal function, reducing oxidative stress,

and supporting the rebuilding of damaged tissues. This can help the body recover from

inflammatory conditions more effectively and maintain healthier long-term tissue function

(Efrati & Ben-Jacob, 2014).

4. Enhancing Circulation for Long-Term Healing

Inflammation can restrict blood flow, reducing the supply of oxygen and nutrients. HBOT

stimulates the growth of new microvascular networks—tiny blood vessels that help nourish

tissues and remove waste. Improved circulation supports long-term healing, helps tissues

recover more fully, and contributes to overall reductions in inflammation-related symptoms

(Efrati & Ben-Jacob, 2014).