Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves inhaling oxygen at pressures exceeding one atmosphere absolute (1 ATA) to enhance the amount of oxygen dissolved in the body’s tissues. During HBOT sessions, arterial oxygen tension can reach as high as 2000 mmHg, and levels of 200–400 mmHg occur in tissues.

Traditionally, HBOT has been utilized worldwide primarily for chronic non-healing wounds. Over the decades, it has gained recognition for its ability to assist with chronic conditions such as ischemic non-healing wounds and delayed radiation injury. When administered by properly trained personnel, HBOT is considered extremely safe, with rare but reversible potential side effects. In recent years, there is a growing understanding of the potential regenerative effects of HBOT. The combined action of both hyperoxia and hyperbaric pressure leads to significant improvement in tissue oxygenation while targeting both oxygen and pressure-sensitive genes. This results in improved mitochondrial metabolism with anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrated in both animal and human studies. Additionally, recent research suggests that these genes may induce stem cell proliferation and increase circulating levels of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and angiogenesis factors, which can help improve blood flow in ischemic areas.

Emerging evidence also suggests that HBOT may promote neuronal regeneration and neuroplasticity. The intermittent increase in oxygen concentration during HBOT induces many mediators and cellular mechanisms typically brought about during hypoxia, but without the hazardous effects of physiological hypoxia. This effect is known as the hyperoxic-hypoxic paradox. Among other benefits, the intermittent hyperoxic exposure during HBOT may affect HIF-1 levels, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) activity, and VEGF, and promote stem cell proliferation. HBOT has also been shown to decrease the inflammatory response in endothelial cells mediated by TNF-alpha, thereby promoting vascular recovery.

Much of the recent research in this field has been conducted at the Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Research at the Shamir Medical Center in Israel. This leading facility, affiliated with Tel Aviv University, employs a large multidisciplinary team, including physicians, neuroscientists, neuropsychologists, biologists, physiologists, physical therapists, and nutrition experts. Their comprehensive research has established them as leaders in integrating this therapy into the options available for managing various conditions.

Recent findings suggest that HBOT can promote neuroplasticity and the regeneration of damaged brain tissue even years after an initial injury. Moreover, using new comprehensive brain imaging, potential recoverable brain tissue may be identified before treatment. As a result, the range of conditions managed with HBOT at the Sagol Center has expanded to include: cognitive performance and aging, traumatic brain injury and post-concussion, post-stroke recovery, chronic pain syndrome-fibromyalgia, and erectile dysfunction.

At Les Cours Hyperbaric Centre, our certified hyperbaric experts are dedicated to providing HBOT sessions aimed at helping reduce symptoms and side effects related to various conditions. Our goal is to assist individuals in exploring the potential benefits of this alternative therapy for improved well-being and quality of life.