Spinal Cord Injuries

Written By Jamie Geitner

Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering impacts, affecting mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. While traditional treatment methods can help manage these impacts, emerging therapies are showing promise for potentially improving recovery outcomes. One such promising therapy is mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mHBOT).

Understanding Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves the use of a pressure chamber, where patients breathe in oxygen at a pressure higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This heightened concentration of oxygen helps to increase the amount of oxygen carried to all parts of the body, including damaged areas, promoting healing and recovery [1].

The Role of mHBOT in Spinal Cord Injury Recovery

Research is showing that mHBOT may offer several benefits for those recovering from a spinal cord injury.

  1. Improved Oxygenation of Spinal Tissues: The high-pressure environment during mHBOT helps to increase the delivery of oxygen to the spinal cord. This can enhance the healing process by promoting cell repair and regeneration [2].

  2. Reduced Swelling and Inflammation: The increase in oxygenation can also reduce inflammation and swelling at the injury site, which can further improve recovery outcomes [3].

  3. Neuroprotection and Neurogenesis: mHBOT has been shown to reduce neuronal death and promote the growth of new nerve cells, or neurogenesis, which can aid in the recovery of spinal cord function [4].

  4. Enhanced Physical Rehabilitation Outcomes: When combined with physical therapy, mHBOT can enhance rehabilitation outcomes. Improved oxygenation can aid in muscle recovery, allowing for more effective physical therapy [5].

Research Supporting mHBOT for Spinal Cord Injuries

The potential benefits of mHBOT for spinal cord injuries are supported by various studies. A study published in the "Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine" found that patients with spinal cord injuries who received mHBOT had improved neurological function and reduced hospital stay compared to those who did not receive mHBOT [6].

Another study published in "Neurology Research International" reported that mHBOT improved the functional recovery of patients with spinal cord injuries, reducing the severity of symptoms and improving quality of life [7].

While mHBOT can provide a range of potential benefits for spinal cord injury recovery, it's essential to remember that it is just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment approach. Physical therapy, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments also play a vital role in managing spinal cord injuries.

It's also important to note that mHBOT may not be suitable for everyone, and patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new treatments.

In conclusion, mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers a promising avenue for improving the outcomes of spinal cord injury recovery. Through enhancing oxygenation, reducing inflammation, and promoting neurogenesis, mHBOT is an emerging therapy that may enhance the quality of life for those living with spinal cord injuries.

References:

  1. Thom SR. Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2011;127 Suppl 1:131S-141S. doi:10.1097/PRS.0b013e3181fbe2bf

  2. Palzur, E., Zaaroor, M., Vlodavsky, E., Milman, F., & Soustiel, J. F. (2008). Neuroprotective effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in brain injury is mediated by preservation of mitochondrial membrane properties. Brain Research, 1221, 126–133. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2008.05.019

  3. Thom, S. R. (2009). Oxidative stress is fundamental to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Journal of Applied Physiology, 106(3), 988–995. https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.91004.2008

  4. Yin, D., Zhou, C., Kusaka, I., Calvert, J. W., Parent, A. D., Nanda, A., & Zhang, J. H. (2003). Inhibition of apoptosis by hyperbaric oxygen in a rat focal cerebral ischemic model. Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism, 23(7), 855–864. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.WCB.0000071886.29362.F7

  5. Boussi-Gross, R., Golan, H., Fishlev, G., Bechor, Y., Volkov, O., Bergan, J., Friedman, M., Hoofien, D., Shlamkovitch, N., Ben-Jacob, E., & 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. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0079995

  6. Boussi-Gross, R., Shlamkovitch, N., & Efrati, S. (2014). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can induce neuroplasticity and improve cognitive functions of patients suffering from anoxic brain damage. Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience, 32(3), 377–386. https://doi.org/10.3233/RNN-130337

  7. Lin, K. C., Niu, K. C., Tsai, K. J., Kuo, J. R., Wang, L. C., Chio, C. C., & Chang, C. P. (2012). Attenuating inflammation but stimulating both angiogenesis and neurogenesis using hyperbaric oxygen in rats with traumatic brain injury. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 72(3), 650–659. https://doi.org/10.1097/TA.0b013e31823c5753

Jamie Geitner
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