Stroke

Hyperbaric oxygenation therapy has proven its effectiveness in this condition, world-wide, both in terms of clinical research and with clinical results. 10 years ago, HBOT demonstrated its value in stroke therapy, helping many stroke victims recover far beyond expectation. At this time, it was thought that the primary mechanism of action was HBOT’s influence on recoverable brain tissue (or the ‘penumbra area’ of the brain); in essence, WAKING UP the brain.

It was also known that HBOT increases the formation of blood vessels to damaged tissue, so it was thought that a series of HBOT could repair the damage caused by a stroke by both helping ‘wake up’ damaged brain cells and ‘creating new permanent circulation’ to these damaged areas.

Now recent research is showing us another reason for the positive results seen with HBOT—Stem Cells. HBOT causes the body to produce stem cells in the brain, aka new brain cells. This is a key to long term recovery for stroke patients. Not only does HBOT stimulate the formation of new brain tissue, it also helps in re-organizing the brain (neuroplasticity).

You see, after any brain injury, including a stroke, the brain is compromised and can have permanently damaged tissue. However, the brain has the ability to re-organize itself, allowing other parts of the brain to take over the functioning of the damaged tissue. HBOT has shown to enhance this effect. This means that not only does HBOT affect recoverable brain tissue, but it also affects non-recoverable tissue—the perfect solution for any stroke victim aiming to have a full recovery.