What does hyperbaric oxygen therapy aim to improve?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is primarily designed to improve blood flow by delivering oxygen to the body's tissues at higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This increased oxygen level enhances the ability of the blood to carry oxygen and can lead to improved healing processes.

The therapy works by saturating the bloodstream with oxygen, which can stimulate the formation of new blood vessels—a process known as angiogenesis—and promote tissue repair in areas where blood flow is compromised. This is particularly beneficial for conditions such as chronic non-healing wounds, certain types of infections, and decompression sickness.

While other options, such as muscle strength, nerve connection, and flexibility, may have some indirect benefits from improved oxygenation and healing, they are not the direct aims or primary focus of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The primary therapeutic effect is the enhancement of blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, making it a crucial approach for various medical conditions that involve oxygen deficiency in tissues.