HBOT

HBOT for Brain Injuries: Study Shows 46% Symptom Relief

CVChristy Van HoogevestJune 16, 20261 min read

A case series of 39 U.S. veterans with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) showed a 46.6% average symptom improvement after 40 sessions of HBOT at 1.5 ATA. Brain perfusion improved significantly on SPECT scans, with common benefits including better sleep, mood, and reduced pain—highlighting HBOT as a promising therapy for long-term neurological recovery.

A recent case series examined the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in 39 U.S. veterans suffering from persistent symptoms of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). After completing 40 HBOT sessions at 1.5 ATA, participants showed significant improvements in both brain perfusion (measured by SPECT imaging) and overall symptom reduction—including improved sleep, mood, and pain levels. On average, veterans reported a 46.6% improvement in symptoms.

Study Overview

Title: A Case Series of 39 United States Veterans with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Quick Summary: This case series followed 39 U.S. veterans with chronic mTBI who completed a short-term HBOT program. Before and after brain scans showed better blood flow to the brain, and most participants reported improved symptoms, including reduced pain and better sleep.

Key Findings:

Brain perfusion improved significantly on SPECT scans (p < 0.001)

Participants reported an average 46.6% improvement in symptoms

Common improvements included better sleep, mood, and less pain

Study Details:

Sample Size: 39 veterans (36 men, 3 women; ages 28–69)

Treatment Protocol:

40 HBOT sessions

90 minutes per session at 1.5 ATA, 100% oxygen

Delivered twice daily over 20 weekdays

Outcome Measures:

SPECT brain imaging (pre- and post-treatment)

Multi-symptom self-reports

Year Published: 2022

Where Published: Medicines (MDPI)

Learn More

Read Full Study on MDPI

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