Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of disability and death worldwide. According to the CDC, in 2014 155 people died each day from injuries that included TBI. These injuries contribute to approximately 30% of all injury deaths in the U.S. In 2010, about 2.5 million TBI related hospitalizations were recorded in the U.S. alone.
Source: CDC
Hyperbaric Oxygen therapy (HBOT) in conjunction with intensive rehabilitation has been demonstrated to enhance the recovery from traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to augment brain activity by reducing hypoxia and neuroinflammation while increasing circulation in the brain. These benefits also have implications for those who sustain a concussion or mild brain injury.
Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Those with Brain Injury
Clinical studies have demonstrated the following benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for those recovering from traumatic brain injury.
Enhance Neurological Repair and Regeneration
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy enhances neurological repair and regeneration in people recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Attenuates the Effects of Hypoxia and Inflammation in the Brain
- Promotes Neurogenesis
- Moderates Mitochondrial Disorders
- Enhances Stem Cell Mobilization and
Proliferation - Increases Penumbra Tissue Recovery
- Stimulates Neuroplasticity
- Induces Remyelination
- Augments Concussion Recovery
Improve Overall Function with HBOT
- Advances Cognitive Function
- Improves Gross/Fine Motor Skills
- Enhances Speech and Language
- Alleviates Spasticity
- Lessens Frequency of Seizures
- Stimulates Better Eye Contact
- Improves Balance and Walking
Clinical Research
The following research article highlights the benefit of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for people who have sustained a traumatic brain injury
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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for traumatic brain injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major public health issue. The complexity of TBI has precluded the use of effective therapies. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been shown to be neuroprotective in multiple neurological disorders, but its efficacy in the management of TBI remains controversial. This review focuses on HBOT applications within the context of experimental and clinical TBI. We also discuss its potential neuroprotective mechanisms. Early or delayed multiple sessions of low atmospheric pressure HBOT can reduce intracranial pressure, improve mortality, as well as promote neurobehavioral recovery. The complimentary, synergistic actions of HBOT include improved tissue oxygenation and cellular metabolism, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Thus HBOT may serve as a promising neuroprotective strategy that when combined with other therapeutic targets for TBI patients which could improve long-term outcomes.
Read “Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for traumatic brain injury.”
Source: International Hyperbarics Association
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