The hyperbaric chamber and hyperbaric oxygen therapy have a long-standing history of providing significant benefits for pain relief and fatigue, both of which are common symptoms associated with conditions like fibromyalgia. In this article, we will delve into the potential connection between HBOT and the treatment of fibromyalgia

Overview of fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. While the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Common symptoms include chronic, widespread pain that affects muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often accompanied by tenderness to touch at specific points known as tender points or trigger points.

Individuals with fibromyalgia may also experience other symptoms such as fatigue, stiffness, headaches, cognitive difficulties (often referred to as “fibro fog”), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), restless legs syndrome (RLS), and sensitivity to noise, light, and temperature changes. The severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals and may fluctuate over time.

Does Hyperbaric chamber work for fibromyalgia?

Yes! Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a potential treatment option for fibromyalgia (FM), offering promising outcomes in alleviating various symptoms associated with the condition. Research suggests that HBOT may have a positive impact on pain management, reduction of tender points, alleviation of fatigue, improvement in multidimensional function, enhancement of patient global assessment, and mitigation of sleep disturbances in individuals with FM.

Studies investigating the efficacy of HBOT for fibromyalgia have reported favorable results, with many patients experiencing significant improvements in their overall quality of life and symptom severity. The mechanism behind HBOT’s therapeutic effects in fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the increased delivery of oxygen to tissues, which can help reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and improve cellular metabolism.

Benefits of Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for fibromyalgia

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) offers several potential benefits for individuals with fibromyalgia:

1. Pain Relief: HBOT has been shown to help alleviate pain associated with fibromyalgia by increasing oxygen delivery to tissues, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue repair. Many patients report a reduction in pain intensity and frequency following HBOT sessions.
2. Reduction of Tender Points: Fibromyalgia is characterized by tender points throughout the body. HBOT may help reduce the sensitivity of these tender points, leading to decreased discomfort and improved overall comfort for individuals with fibromyalgia.
3. Alleviation of Fatigue: Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom of fibromyalgia. HBOT can help combat fatigue by improving cellular metabolism, enhancing energy production, and promoting overall vitality and well-being.
4. Improvement in Sleep Quality: Sleep disturbances are prevalent among fibromyalgia patients. HBOT has been reported to improve sleep quality by regulating circadian rhythms, promoting relaxation, and reducing factors that contribute to sleep disturbances, such as pain and discomfort.
5. Enhancement of Multidimensional Function: Fibromyalgia often impacts various aspects of daily functioning, including physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. HBOT may help improve multidimensional function by addressing underlying physiological processes, promoting healing, and enhancing overall resilience and adaptability.
6. Enhanced Quality of Life: By alleviating pain, reducing fatigue, improving sleep quality, and enhancing overall function, HBOT can contribute to a better quality of life for individuals with fibromyalgia. Many patients report feeling more capable, engaged, and satisfied with life following HBOT treatments.

Side effects of Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for fibromyalgia

While hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is generally considered safe, there are potential side effects and risks associated with its use for fibromyalgia treatment. These side effects may include:

1. Barotrauma: HBOT involves exposure to increased pressure, which can lead to barotrauma or pressure-related injuries. Barotrauma may affect the ears, sinuses, and lungs, causing symptoms such as ear pain, sinus discomfort, or even more serious complications like pneumothorax (collapsed lung).
2. Oxygen Toxicity: Breathing high concentrations of oxygen under pressure can result in oxygen toxicity, which may manifest as symptoms such as coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, seizures, or visual changes. Patients undergoing HBOT may be at risk of oxygen toxicity, especially with prolonged or high-pressure treatments.
3. Claustrophobia: Some individuals may experience feelings of claustrophobia or anxiety while inside the hyperbaric chamber, particularly if they are prone to claustrophobic reactions or have pre-existing anxiety disorders. This may lead to discomfort or distress during HBOT sessions.
4. Hypoglycemia: HBOT sessions can occasionally cause drops in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), particularly in patients with diabetes or those who are fasting. Monitoring blood glucose levels and adjusting insulin or glucose intake as needed can help mitigate this risk during HBOT treatments.
5. Sinus or Pulmonary Congestion: The increased pressure experienced during HBOT sessions may cause sinus or pulmonary congestion in susceptible individuals, leading to symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
6. Oxygen Fire Hazard: Hyperbaric chambers use pure oxygen, which can pose a fire hazard if proper safety precautions are not followed. While incidents of oxygen fires in hyperbaric chambers are rare, strict protocols for fire prevention and emergency response are essential to ensure patient safety.
7. Aggravation of Symptoms: In some cases, individuals with fibromyalgia may experience temporary exacerbation of symptoms following HBOT sessions, including increased pain, fatigue, or cognitive difficulties. This may occur as the body adjusts to the treatment or due to individual sensitivities.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

Efrati, S., Golan, H., Bechor, Y., Faran, Y., Daphna-Tekoah, S., Sekler, G., Fishlev, G., Ablin, J. N., Bergan, J., Volkov, O., Friedman, M., Ben-Jacob, E., & Buskila, D. (2015). Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Diminish Fibromyalgia Syndrome – Prospective Clinical Trial. PLoS ONE, 10(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0127012

Ablin, J. N., Lang, E., Catalogna, M., Aloush, V., Hadanny, A., Doenyas-Barak, K., Finci, S., Polak, N., Fishlev, G., Korin, C., Tzidky, R. Y., Genuth, O. M., & Efrati, S. (2023). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy compared to pharmacological intervention in fibromyalgia patients following traumatic brain injury: A randomized, controlled trial. PLOS ONE, 18(3). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0282406

Cao, C., Li, Q., Zhang, X., Varrassi, G., & Wang, H. (2023). Effectiveness of Hyperbaric Oxygen for Fibromyalgia: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Clinics and Practice, 13(3), 583-595. https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract13030053

Chen X, You J, Ma H, et al. Efficacy and safety of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2023;13:e062322. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062322