What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed existing evidence on alternative uses of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), and traumatic brain injury (TBI) in military and veteran populations.
What They Found
The review found that existing medical evidence does not support a consensus viewpoint for the alternative uses of HBOT in treating PTSD, mTBI, or TBI. Despite a groundswell of support from veteran communities, the empirical results show conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of HBOT for these conditions.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients, particularly veterans, should be aware that current medical evidence does not support the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for conditions like PTSD or traumatic brain injuries. Individuals considering HBOT for these alternative uses should discuss the lack of consensus evidence with their healthcare providers.
Canadian Relevance
This review primarily examines evidence within US military and veteran populations, and therefore has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The review's findings are limited by the conflicting and non-consensus nature of the existing empirical evidence regarding alternative HBOT uses.