Cerebral Palsy
In recent years, a novel approach to managing cerebral palsy has emerged with encouraging clinical and anecdotal evidence. The therapy in question is Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT), a non-invasive treatment involving increased atmospheric pressure and oxygen concentration. While more research is still needed, preliminary findings suggest mHBOT could be an advantageous addition to the arsenal of therapeutic options for cerebral palsy patients [1].
What is Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
In essence, mHBOT is a variant of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. It involves exposing the patient to mildly elevated atmospheric pressure — typically about 1.3 atmospheres absolute (ATA) — and a higher concentration of oxygen than normally found in the air [2]. The patient breathes in this enriched air, which in turn increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the body’s tissues.
Potential Benefits of mHBOT for Cerebral Palsy
Improved Oxygen Supply: One of the main challenges in cerebral palsy is impaired oxygen supply to the brain. This is where mHBOT may prove most beneficial. By increasing the oxygen concentration, mHBOT enhances the oxygen supply to all body tissues, including the brain [3]. This can potentially support better brain function and health.
Reduction in Inflammation: Inflammation plays a key role in the progression of cerebral palsy. Some studies suggest that mHBOT can help reduce inflammation, and in doing so, potentially slow down disease progression [4].
Stimulating Neuroplasticity: Emerging research suggests that mHBOT can promote neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to reorganize and form new neural connections. This potential ability to "re-wire" the brain could lead to improved motor function and other benefits for individuals with cerebral palsy [5].
Increased Quality of Life: Preliminary reports from patients and their caregivers suggest that mHBOT can contribute to improved day-to-day functionality and quality of life. It may assist in reducing the symptoms of cerebral palsy such as muscle spasms, enhancing mobility, and improving cognitive function [6].
Conclusion
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy represents a fascinating frontier in the therapeutic landscape of cerebral palsy. While we must cautiously interpret the available research, the potential of this therapy is compelling. Its capacity to enhance oxygen delivery, reduce inflammation, stimulate neuroplasticity, and improve quality of life offers a ray of hope for patients grappling with this challenging condition.
Further rigorous scientific investigation will hopefully unravel more about the capabilities and limitations of mHBOT in treating cerebral palsy. Until then, it remains an interesting and promising field of study.
References:
Efrati, S., Golan, H., Bechor, Y., Faran, Y., Daphna-Tekoah, S., Sekler, G., ... & Ablin, J. N. (2013). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can diminish fibromyalgia syndrome – prospective clinical trial. PLoS ONE, 8(5), e61570.
Boussi-Gross, R., Golan, H., Fishlev, G., Bechor, Y., Volkov, O., Bergan, J., ... & Efrati, S. (2013). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve post-concussion syndrome years after mild traumatic brain injury - randomized prospective trial. PLoS ONE, 8(11), e79995.
Efrati, S., & Ben-Jacob, E. (2014). Reflections on the neurotherapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen. Expert review of neurotherapeutics, 14(3), 233-236.
Thom, S. R. (2009). Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 127(Suppl 1), 131S-141S.
Tal, S., Hadanny, A., Berkovitz, N., Sasson, E., Ben-Jacob, E., & Efrati, S. (2015). Hyperbaric oxygen may induce angiogenesis in patients suffering from prolonged post-concussion syndrome due to traumatic brain injury. Restorative neurology and neuroscience, 33(6), 943-951.
Collet, J. P., Vanasse, M., Marois, P., Amar, M., Goldberg, J., Lambert, J., ... & Ducruet, T. (2001). Hyperbaric oxygen for children with cerebral palsy: a randomised multicentre trial. The Lancet, 357(9256), 582-586.