What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% oxygen inside a pressurised chamber. The increased pressure allows oxygen to dissolve more effectively into the bloodstream and reach tissues that may be oxygen-deprived — including injured areas of the brain.

There are two main types of chambers:

• Monoplace chambers (single person, clear tube style)
• Multiplace chambers (multiple people treated together)

Sessions typically last 60–90 minutes, and treatment plans may involve multiple sessions over several weeks.

Why Oxygen Matters in Brain Injury

After a traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussion, or repeated head trauma, the brain can experience:

• Reduced blood flow
• Impaired oxygen delivery
• Chronic inflammation
• Mitochondrial dysfunction
• Ongoing metabolic disturbance

Even months or years after injury, certain areas of the brain may remain in a state sometimes referred to as “metabolic hibernation” — alive but functioning below optimal levels due to insufficient oxygen and energy production.

HBOT aims to increase oxygen availability to these areas.

How HBOT May Support Brain Recovery

Research suggests HBOT may:

Increase Oxygen Delivery

Under pressure, oxygen dissolves directly into plasma, allowing it to reach injured brain tissue more effectively than normal breathing alone.

Reduce Inflammation

Hyperbaric oxygen may help modulate inflammatory pathways, which are often persistently elevated in chronic TBI and CTE.

Stimulate Neuroplasticity

Some studies indicate HBOT may promote neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) and support the rewiring of neural pathways.

Improve Blood Flow

HBOT may stimulate angiogenesis — the formation of new blood vessels — improving long-term circulation in damaged brain regions.

Enhance Cognitive Function

Clinical research in chronic TBI patients has shown improvements in:

• Memory
• Attention
• Executive function
• Processing speed
• Quality of life measures

HBOT & Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)

CTE is associated with long-term neuroinflammation, tau protein accumulation, and progressive cognitive decline following repetitive head impacts.

While HBOT is not a cure for CTE, it is being explored as a supportive intervention because it targets:

• Inflammation
• Oxygen metabolism
• Mitochondrial dysfunction
• Cerebral blood flow

These are key mechanisms believed to contribute to symptom progression.

HBOT & Neurodegenerative Diseases

There is growing interest in HBOT for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

Emerging research suggests HBOT may:

• Improve cerebral blood flow
• Enhance cognitive performance in mild-to-moderate cases
• Support brain metabolism
• Reduce inflammatory markers

Early trials have shown promising cognitive improvements in some patients, but larger-scale studies are still needed.

HBOT should be viewed as a potential adjunct therapy, not a replacement for medical treatment.

What Does the Research Say?

Several peer-reviewed studies in chronic TBI populations have demonstrated measurable improvements in cognitive function and brain imaging following structured HBOT protocols.

However, protocols vary widely, and outcomes depend on:

• Timing after injury
• Number of sessions
• Pressure used
• Individual health status

More large, standardised clinical trials are needed to establish universal guidelines.

Is HBOT Safe?

When delivered in a certified medical facility, HBOT is generally considered safe.

• Potential side effects can include:
• Ear pressure or discomfort
• Temporary vision changes
• Fatigue after sessions

It may not be suitable for individuals with certain lung conditions or untreated pneumothorax. A full medical assessment is essential before starting treatment.

HBOT Rental in UK

Cryo Cube offer competitive monthly rental rates for soft-shell Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) chambers. These portable chambers provide an accessible and cost-effective way to undertake HBOT from the comfort of your own home. Designed for convenience, the soft-shell systems are lightweight and easy to assemble, and can be deflated and stored neatly when not in use — making them a practical option for long-term therapy without taking up permanent space. For more information take a look at their website here.

Important Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only. None of the treatments, lifestyle changes, or supplements discussed are cures for CTE or any other neurodegenerative disease. At present, there is no known cure for these conditions.

We strongly encourage you to seek advice from a qualified medical professional, such as a doctor or specialist, before making any changes to your diet, beginning new treatments, or taking supplements. “Natural” does not always mean safe, and some substances may carry risks, side effects, or interactions with medications.

Our goal is to empower individuals with knowledge—not to replace professional medical care.