Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing nearly pure oxygen through a mask in a pressurised chamber. This high-pressure environment helps increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and the amount of oxygen in the blood plasma. HBOT may have wide-ranging benefits for patients with fibromyalgia, including decreased pain and improved sleep, cognitive function and quality of life.
HBOT can improve oxygen delivery, blood flow, and healing while reducing inflammation and the risk of further injury. There is robust clinical evidence supporting HBOT as an adjunctive treatment for fibromyalgia.
How HBOT Works for Fibromyalgia
HBOT may be beneficial in the treatment of fibromyalgia by enhancing oxygen delivery.
1. Increased Oxygenation:
HBOT boosts oxygen levels in the blood, helping deliver oxygen to the brain and muscles. This has been observed in studies to help alleviate symptoms in fibromyalgia patients.
2. Reduces Neuroinflammation:
HBOT has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory substances in the central nervous system. By helping to reduce and manage the inflammatory response, HBOT may alleviate the chronic pain and cognitive dysfunction associated with fibromyalgia.
3. Neuroplasticity and Pain Modulation:
HBOT may promote neuroplasticity and enhance the brain’s capacity to modulate pain and reduce hypersensitivity.
4. Improved Cell Function:
Fibromyalgia has been linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. HBOT enhances mitochondrial function by increasing the oxygen levels in the blood which can boost ATP production and reduce oxidative damage.
5. Improved Immune Function:
HBOT has the ability to regulate the immune system, helping it function more effectively. This balanced immune response is particularly important for fibromyalgia patients, as the condition is often associated with immune system irregularities.
Benefits of HBOT for Patients with Fibromyalgia
HBOT is generally very well tolerated, and serious side effects are extremely rare. Patients with fibromyalgia may experience a range of benefits from HBOT that can significantly improve their symptoms and quality of life.
Pain Reduction
Enhanced sleep quality
Improved cognitive function
Increased energy level
Overall symptom relief
Practical Considerations
Treatment Protocols:
Treatments usually last 60 to 90 minutes per session and are conducted daily over several weeks. Every individual is different and we recommend consulting with your medical team. To help determine how many sessions each individual will require, new clients can speak with OxyGeneration staff prior to commencing their Hyperbaric Oxygenation Therapy.
Monitoring Progress:
Regular assessments are crucial to track healing progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Client with Fibromyalgia:
“I noticed that I have a lot more energy. Usually, my sleep was very broken, and I might get 3 or 4 hours a night for the last ten years. Since I started my sessions here, I think I’m getting a solid 8-hour sleep every night. I’m so happy that I’m getting a good sleep at last. I’m also seeing a good reduction in the pain that I have every day. I’ve actually had some days where I had no pain at all. Normally, I would have a lot of stiffness and my joints would feel kind of hard to move, but I feel so much looser and freer. I would recommend this to anybody.”
Conclusion
Several clinical studies, including controlled trials and meta-analyses, indicate that HBOT is an effective treatment option for fibromyalgia. There have been a number of reviews, randomised control trials and neuroimaging studies that support this conclusion. Please see the medical reference section for further details.
While HBOT is not a standalone cure for fibromyalgia, it represents a promising addition to traditional management strategies. As with any medical treatment, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if HBOT is appropriate for your specific injury and overall health condition.
For further information on the use of HBOT for fibromyalgia, please visit our resources page by clicking the link below.