Hyperbaric Chamber Basics for Patients
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is neither new nor alternative—it is a recognized medical specialty and a scientifically validated treatment that has been part of mainstream clinical practice since the 1950s. Traditionally, it has been predominantly reserved for hospital settings, where it is used to support patients with complex or urgent medical conditions that require specialised care.
What Conditions is HBOT Used For?
In the U.S., Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is officially approved by the FDA and the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) for 14 medical conditions.
Beyond these established uses, there's a growing body of research exploring HBOT's potential in a wider range of health concerns. Leading academic institutions and hospitals are driving this progress through large-scale clinical trials, collaborative studies, and contributions to national research registries.
As the evidence base expands, HBOT is increasingly being recognised not just as a critical care intervention, but also as a promising regenerative therapy—with the potential to support recovery in chronic, inflammatory, and degenerative conditions.
Is There Scientific Proof?
Yes—HBOT is supported by over 16,000 peer-reviewed studies and a substantial body of medical literature, including dedicated textbooks on hyperbaric medicine. It is recognised as a medical specialty in many countries, with formal training pathways for doctors and healthcare professionals.
In the UK, HBOT is delivered in clinical settings by trained medical staff. However, because the field is not yet fully regulated, some non-medical providers may offer HBOT without appropriate clinical oversight. This makes it even more important to choose a facility that upholds the highest standards of medical safety, professionalism, and patient care.
How Does HBOT Work?
During a session, you relax comfortably inside a pressurised chamber while breathing nearly pure oxygen through a specialised mask (known as a BIBS). The increased pressure allows oxygen to dissolve more effectively into your blood plasma—the fluid portion of your blood—enabling it to reach areas of the body that typically receive less oxygen.
At therapeutic pressures, HBOT can boost oxygen levels in tissues by up to 1,200%. This elevated oxygen environment supports the body's natural recovery processes by promoting the release of key compounds like VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), stem cells, and other growth factors that contribute to repair, regeneration, and healthy cellular function.
Learn more about how HBOT supports regeneration and healthy aging
Choosing the Right HBOT Facility: Safety, Standards, and Supervision
HBOT is a highly effective and generally safe treatment when administered appropriately.
- Like any medical therapy, it may not be suitable for everyone, and rare side effects can occur.
- A thorough pre-treatment evaluation by a physician trained in hyperbaric medicine is essential to assess suitability and ensure the treatment is safe, appropriate, and tailored to your individual health needs.
For safety and therapeutic effectiveness, HBOT should only be delivered:
- In a properly equipped, regulated medical facility.
- Under the supervision of a qualified medical doctor with specialised expertise in HBOT.
- Applying hospital-grade standards—providing precise oxygen delivery, appropriate therapeutic pressures, advanced air filtration, and robust safety protocols.
Thinking About HBOT?
If you're considering HBOT and want to know whether it's right for you, our team at NUMA is happy to help.
📞 Reach out today: Contact NUMA