What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed the potential benefits and risks of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment as an adjuvant therapy for athletes.
What They Found
They found that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) treatment can reduce post-injury swelling, although to a lesser extent in humans compared to animals. HBO was also reported to improve tissue remodeling in injuries involving bones, muscles, and ligaments, and effectively increased recovery from fatigue, as observed at the Nagano Winter Olympics.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study highlights that HBO treatment carries risks, including oxidative damage to DNA, and requires further research for widespread and tailored application.