How stepping into a pressurized chamber could help stubborn wounds finally close the chapter.

Chronic wounds can be more than just painful—they can stall your life. Whether it’s a diabetic foot ulcer that just won’t heal or lingering tissue damage from radiation treatment, wounds that resist recovery can lead to complications, frustration, and countless hours in the doctor’s office.

But what if the key to faster healing isn’t a new cream or surgical procedure—but simply more oxygen? Welcome to the world of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), a fascinating and effective treatment that’s giving chronic wounds a fighting chance.

In this guide, we’ll explore how HBOT works, why it’s effective, and what to expect if you’re considering it as part of your healing journey.

 What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Imagine lying in a sleek, pressurized chamber while breathing in 100% pure oxygen—this is the essence of HBOT. Unlike normal air, which contains just 21% oxygen, HBOT floods your system with a much higher dose. Inside the chamber, air pressure is increased up to three times the normal level, allowing your lungs to absorb much more oxygen than usual.

And why is that a big deal? Because oxygen is the fuel for your body’s healing engine. The more of it your bloodstream can deliver to damaged tissues, the faster and more efficiently your body can repair itself.

 How Does HBOT Heal Wounds?

Chronic wounds often struggle to heal because they’re starved of oxygen. This might be due to poor circulation, infection, or damage from radiation or trauma. HBOT helps by supercharging your body with oxygen—and the results are impressive.

Here’s what happens under the surface:

• Oxygen floods the wound site, even in tissue with poor blood flow
• New blood vessels (angiogenesis) begin to grow
• Collagen production ramps up, helping rebuild damaged skin
• Infections get shut down, thanks to boosted immune cells
• Swelling and inflammation are reduced, creating a better environment for healing

 In short: HBOT helps your body do what it was meant to do—just faster and more efficiently.

 Who Can Benefit from HBOT for Wound Care?

If you’ve been dealing with a wound that refuses to close, Hyperbolic oxygen therapy for wounds might be the missing piece. It’s especially helpful for people facing:

• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Pressure sores (bedsores)
• Venous leg ulcers
• Radiation-injured tissue
• Skin grafts or flaps at risk of failing
• Crush injuries or compromised blood flow

 If traditional treatments haven’t worked, it’s worth asking your wound care specialist or physician about adding HBOT to your recovery plan.

What to Expect During a Hyperbaric Session

A typical HBOT session is simple, relaxing—and often compared to taking a nap in a space-age pod. Here’s how it usually works:

• Sessions last around 90 minutes
• You’ll relax in a clear chamber or a comfortable room while breathing oxygen through a mask or hood
• You may feel pressure in your ears, similar to flying on a plane (chewing gum or swallowing helps!)
• Most patients complete 20 to 40 sessions, depending on their condition and how they respond

Many centers provide a peaceful environment with soothing music or entertainment options. Some even describe it as a daily dose of healing “me time.”

 Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Like any medical treatment, HBOT isn’t completely without risks—but most are rare and mild:

• Temporary nearsightedness (usually resolves after treatment ends)
• Ear discomfort or barotrauma (due to pressure changes)
• Fatigue or mild dizziness
• Very rarely: lung complications or seizures

 Your care team will monitor you closely and walk you through every step to ensure your comfort and safety.

 Is HBOT Right for You?

HBOT isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—but for many people with non-healing wounds, it offers hope where other methods have failed. It’s especially powerful when used in combination with traditional wound care strategies like debridement, dressings, and proper blood sugar management.

Here’s how to find out if you’re a good candidate:

• Talk to a wound care specialist or your physician
• Get an evaluation of your wound and overall health
• Discuss your treatment goals and any existing conditions

 Many insurance providers—including Medicare—cover HBOT for approved conditions. Ask your provider what’s available in your area.

Final Thoughts: Let Oxygen Do the Healing

If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of wound treatments with little progress, hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be the reset your body needs. It's high-tech, clinically proven, and in many cases—life-changing.

Think of HBOT as your body’s backstage crew—quietly but powerfully setting the stage for healing, rebuilding, and renewal.