Living with arthritis or an autoimmune condition often means dealing with constant pain, stiffness and fatigue. While traditional treatments like medication and physiotherapy can offer relief, they sometimes fall short when it comes to providing long-term improvements.
This is why more people are exploring alternative therapies that can complement or even enhance their current treatment plans. One such therapy gaining attention is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
But how can something as simple as oxygen make a significant difference?
Let’s explore how HBOT works and how it may help people with arthritis and autoimmune conditions regain mobility and reduce pain.
Understanding arthritis and autoimmune conditions
Arthritis is a broad term that refers to inflammation of the joints, the most common types being osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). OA is typically caused by wear and tear over time, where the cartilage in the joints breaks down, leading to pain and reduced function. RA, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, particularly the joints, causing severe inflammation, pain and eventual joint damage.
But arthritis is just one part of the picture. Autoimmune diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), and fibromyalgia also cause chronic inflammation and immune system dysfunction. These conditions can severely impact daily life by causing widespread pain, fatigue and difficulty moving. The symptoms often fluctuate, with periods of flare-ups that can make managing these conditions particularly challenging.
How HBOT works
HBOT involves breathing in near-pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, which allows the body to absorb more oxygen than it typically would under normal circumstances. This increased oxygen delivery promotes several healing processes within the body, such as:
Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of arthritis and autoimmune diseases. By enhancing oxygen levels in the tissues, HBOT helps reduce the body’s inflammatory response, which is key to alleviating pain and stiffness.
Boosting tissue healing: Oxygen plays a crucial role in the body’s healing processes. With increased oxygen levels, damaged tissues, including cartilage in the joints, can repair and regenerate more efficiently.
Improving circulation: The extra oxygen helps improve blood flow, allowing oxygen-rich blood to reach areas of the body that need it the most, such as inflamed joints.
Supporting immune system function: HBOT can help balance the immune system by modulating overactive immune responses, which is particularly beneficial for people with autoimmune diseases.
There is an increasing body of research suggesting that HBOT can offer benefits for people with arthritis and autoimmune conditions, although more studies are needed to fully understand its long-term effects.
The benefits of HBOT for arthritis and autoimmune conditions
Many individuals who have tried HBOT for chronic conditions report a range of benefits. Some of the most commonly noted include:
Pain relief: By reducing inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues, HBOT helps alleviate pain, making movement easier and more comfortable.
Improved mobility: Regular HBOT sessions can reduce joint stiffness and swelling, which enhances flexibility and movement. Many people find that they can perform everyday tasks, such as walking or bending, with less discomfort.
Faster recovery: HBOT speeds up tissue repair, which is particularly beneficial for people with damaged joints or muscles. This can help lead to a quicker recovery after a flare-up or injury.
Reduced reliance on medications: For some, HBOT may decrease the need for painkillers, anti-inflammatories or other medications commonly used to manage arthritis and autoimmune symptoms.
Stronger immune function: For individuals with auto immune conditions, HBOT may help modulate the immune system’s response, potentially reducing flare-ups and improving overall disease management.
Is HBOT right for you?
If you’re dealing with arthritis or an autoimmune condition and are considering non-invasive therapy to help with pain and inflammation, HBOT could be worth exploring. However, if you’re unsure whether HBOT is the right choice for you, it’s always best to consult with your GP or a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
Here’s what you can expect from a typical HBOT session at HybO2:
Session length: Most sessions last between 60 to 90 minutes, during which you’ll breathe in near-pure oxygen while comfortably seated in a pressurised chamber.
Number of sessions: While some people notice improvements after just a few sessions, multiple visits may be required for optimal results. The number of sessions you’ll need depends on your specific condition and how your body responds. Our friendly team can help you decide how many sessions you will need.
Safety and side effects: HBOT is generally considered safe, with minimal side effects, which may include ear pressure or mild fatigue. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider beforehand to determine if HBOT is appropriate for your condition.
Heard enough?
If you’re ready for your HBOT consultation and to have your first session, you can book here. First-time customers can book a consultation and hyperbaric oxygen therapy session (up to 60 minutes total) for only £60.
If you’d like to speak to us before booking, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team.