Recovery · 4 min read
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, explained
HBOT shows up everywhere from sports recovery to wellness spas, often with bigger claims than the evidence supports. Here is a grounded look at what it is.
The basic idea
In a hyperbaric environment, air pressure is increased above normal. Under that pressure, your blood can carry more oxygen than it otherwise would. The premise is simple. More available oxygen may support the body's normal recovery processes.
What a session is like
Most people find HBOT relaxing. You settle into the chamber and rest for around an hour. Many read, listen to something, or simply unwind. The main sensation is a brief ear-pressure change, similar to a plane descending, which passes quickly.
Who tends to use it
- Active adults focused on recovery from demanding training
- People building a consistent wellness routine
- Those who like to stack recovery modalities in one visit
A note on claims
Hospital hyperbaric chambers are FDA cleared for a specific set of medical conditions. Many of the uses you will see marketed online fall outside that list, and sessions here are elective wellness sessions. We will tell you which category your goal falls into.
Published . Medically reviewed by Scott Faulkner, MD, Medical Director, Castle Rock Regenerative Healthcare. This article is educational and is not medical advice. Individual results vary.
Curious where you would begin?
A free 30-minute consultation is the simplest way to get started. One of our providers answers your questions and tells you whether it looks like a fit, and we book your visit from there.