What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial to evaluate hyperbaric oxygen therapy for post-concussive symptoms in 71 United States military personnel with mild traumatic brain injury.
What They Found
The hyperbaric oxygen group showed improved 13-week Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory scores with a mean change of -3.6 points, compared to a +3.9 point change in the sham group (P=0.03). For participants with co-occurring PTSD, HBO₂ led to a more pronounced improvement of -8.6 points versus +4.8 points with sham (P=0.02).
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients experiencing persistent post-concussive symptoms, especially those with co-occurring PTSD, might find hyperbaric oxygen therapy a potential treatment option. However, more extensive research is needed before widespread clinical adoption.
Canadian Relevance
This study focused on United States military service members and has no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The study was a Phase II trial with a relatively small sample size, limiting the generalizability and definitive conclusions about efficacy.