What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Discover how hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) works and why it's prescribed for chronic wounds, radiation damage, and more.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a specialized medical treatment that enhances the body’s natural healing process by delivering 100% oxygen at pressures higher than normal atmospheric levels. Patients are placed in a pressurized chamber—typically 1.5 to 2.5 times greater than sea level—simulating the pressure experienced at 30 to 40 feet underwater.

This increased pressure allows the lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen, which is then delivered through the bloodstream to damaged tissues. The high oxygen concentration supports the body’s ability to fight infection, reduce inflammation, promote new blood vessel growth, and accelerate tissue repair—especially in areas with poor circulation or chronic wounds.

HBOT is FDA-approved for multiple conditions, including diabetic foot ulcers, radiation injuries, chronic bone infections (osteomyelitis), and non-healing surgical wounds.

Click here to learn more about what conditions hyperbaric oxygen therapy can treat.