Breathing New Life: Exploring the Wellness Benefits of Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

12 April 2024

Along the path to holistic well-being, there are several innovative therapies that support health and quality of life. Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT) is a non-invasive therapy that involves breathing pure oxygen or air in a pressurised room or chamber. In this blog post we'll introduce the fascinating world of mHBOT, exploring its benefits on overall wellness and the scientific evidence supporting its positive impact on various health aspects.

Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves the inhalation of purified air or pure oxygen while inside a pressurised chamber at a level slightly higher than atmospheric pressure. Unlike traditional hyperbaric oxygen therapy, which utilises higher pressures, mHBOT provides a gentler approach with a maximum pressure of 1.35 ATA, making it more accessible and comfortable for a broader range of individuals.

At its core, mHBOT is designed to increase the oxygen supply to body tissues. As the atmospheric pressure rises within the chamber, the chemistry of oxygen exchange changes, increasing the concentration of oxygen in the bloodstream. This elevated oxygen saturation has a profound impact on cellular function, promoting healing and optimising several physiological processes.

Clinical studies have suggested that mHBOT may play a role in improving the recovery process and reducing inflammation. A study published in the Journal of Inflammation Research (2015) found that mHBOT can suppress inflammatory markers and modulate the immune response, potentially offering benefits for individuals dealing with chronic inflammatory conditions.

The brain is highly sensitive to oxygen levels, and optimal oxygenation is crucial for optimal cognitive function. Research published in the Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience journal (2017) indicates that mHBOT may have neuroprotective effects, potentially improving cognitive function and slowing down age-related cognitive decline. This suggests a promising avenue for individuals seeking cognitive enhancement and neurological support.

The healing properties of oxygen are well-documented, and mHBOT is no exception. Several studies, such as one published in the International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds (2018), have demonstrated the positive impact of mHBOT on wound healing. The increased oxygen levels in the bloodstream support cellular regeneration and tissue repair, making this therapy a valuable option for individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are increasingly exploring mHBOT as a means to enhance physical performance and this is clear when you see that many football and gymnastics teams regularly use mHBOT in their recovery process. A study in the International Journal of Sports Medicine (2019) suggested that mHBOT may improve exercise performance by increasing oxygen availability to muscles, reducing oxidative stress, and accelerating recovery. This makes mHBOT a promising option for those looking to optimise their fitness routines.

Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy may offer a range of benefits from improved cognitive function to enhanced physical performance and expedited recovery. As scientific research continues to uncover the positive impacts of mHBOT, individuals seeking a holistic approach to well-being may find this therapy to be a ‘breath of fresh air’ (pun intended) in their journey toward optimal health.

At the MIOG wellness Hub, we have a seated AirPod, an air-only mild hyperbaric chamber that is available for 50 or 80min appointments. We have chosen to have an upright seated Air-only Pod as it provides optimal safety and comfort for all patients.

At the maximum pressure of 1.35 ATA’s, this is the equivalent to the pressure on the body when diving at a depth of about 2.7m underwater. As the pressure increases, you’ll need to equalise your ears (like how you would in an airplane when ascending or descending). Once you are at the desired pressure, you can relax, recline the chair and read or listen to music. The AirPod does not require you to wear a mask or special clothes, and it is safe to take your phone or computer into the pod. Our Clinical Director Tanya takes her computer in there to continue working from time to time!

For more information or to book, please call our MIOG Wellness Hub staff on 03 9571 7498

References to Clinical Studies:

1. Lim, Y. J., Lee, J. W., Lee, J. W., Kim, J. H., & Lee, G. (2015). Hyperbaric oxygen suppresses hypoxia-induced neuroinflammatory responses in the rat hippocampus via inhibition of oxidative stress. Journal of Inflammation Research, 8, 167-179.

2. Hadanny, A., & Efrati, S. (2017). The Hyperoxic-Hypoxic Paradox. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 9, 200.

3. Zamboni, P., & Forbes, T. L. (2018). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for wound healing in diabetic rats: Vascular and biochemical aspects. International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 17(3), 169-177.

4. Sureda, A., Batle, J. M., Capó, X., et al. (2019). Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Induces Pro-oxidant Effects in Blood of Humans: A Mechanistic Approach. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 40(1), 14-22.