What Researchers Did
Researchers investigated whether adding oxygen barotherapy (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) to radiation therapy improved outcomes for patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthrosis.
What They Found
The study included 46 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 18 with osteoarthrosis; 24 RA and 10 OA patients received oxygen barotherapy before radiation therapy. This combined approach resulted in more significant positive clinical changes and slower disease progression compared to radiation therapy alone, as evidenced by clinical and ultrasound assessments. The use of oxygen barotherapy also reduced the need for drug therapy, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthrosis receiving radiation therapy, this research suggests that adding hyperbaric oxygen therapy could lead to better symptom management and slower disease progression. It may also help reduce the need for pain medications, offering a potential benefit for long-term care.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
The study involved a relatively small number of patients and was published in 2002, which may limit the generalizability of its findings.