What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of four randomized controlled trials involving 163 participants to evaluate the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for fibromyalgia syndrome.
What They Found
They found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly improved Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (SMD = -1.57) and Tender Points Count (SMD = -2.50) in fibromyalgia patients. However, it showed no significant effect on pain and significantly increased the incidence of side effects (RR = 24.97).
What This Means for Canadian Patients
While hyperbaric oxygen therapy may improve some aspects of fibromyalgia like impact and tender points, it does not appear to reduce pain and carries a higher risk of side effects. Patients should discuss these potential benefits and risks with their healthcare providers before considering this treatment.
Canadian Relevance
This meta-analysis did not include any Canadian studies or participants, so its direct relevance to the Canadian healthcare context is not established.
Study Limitations
The study's findings are limited by the small number of included randomized controlled trials and participants.