Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a neuromodulatory technique: a review of the recent evidence.

What Researchers Did

Researchers reviewed recent evidence on hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a neuromodulatory technique for treating various neurological and psychological disorders.

What They Found

They found HBOT promotes brain recovery and neuroplasticity by modulating mechanisms like mitochondrial biogenesis, neurogenesis (upregulating Wnt-3 and VEGF/ERK signaling), synaptogenesis (elevating GAP43), and anti-inflammatory responses (reducing TNF-α and IL-6). These effects contribute to enhanced cognitive function and improved recovery from conditions such as traumatic brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, and fibromyalgia.

Canadian Relevance

This review does not specifically address Canadian populations or healthcare contexts.

Study Limitations

As a review, this study synthesizes existing evidence without presenting new experimental data or addressing potential biases in the reviewed literature.