Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a treatment and potential support option for diabetes and its associated complications.

Support and Treatment for Diabetes through Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

In 2015, diabetes affected 30.3 million Americans, comprising 9.4% of the population. Annually, 1.5 million Americans receive a diagnosis of diabetes. As of 2015, diabetes ranks as the 7th leading cause of death in the United States, with 79,535 death certificates attributing it as the primary cause and a total of 252,806 certificates citing it as either an underlying or contributing factor.

Source: American Diabetes Association

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a promising treatment for diabetes-related complications, particularly those involving the small blood vessels. Studies have indicated that HBOT can promote angiogenesis, improving blood flow and potentially preventing organ failure. Additionally, research suggests that HBOT may help regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing cellular sensitivity to insulin and facilitating the uptake of glucose by skeletal muscles. Recent findings also suggest a possible connection between HBOT and the regeneration of pancreatic islets of Langerhans, which could lead to increased insulin production. HBOT is commonly utilized in managing conditions like osteomyelitis and cellulitis, offering benefits such as preventing systemic toxicity and long-term disability. In cases of chronic diabetes, where impaired circulation hampers wound healing and fosters ulcerations, HBOT plays a crucial role by increasing oxygen availability to ulcerated areas, thereby promoting fibroblast activation and enhancing wound healing.

Advantages of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Treating Diabetes

Research has shown the following advantages of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for diabetes.

Enhance Blood Chemistry Profile through HBOT

Enhance Glycemic Regulation through HBOT

Reduce Cardiovascular Risk through HBOT

Promote Angiogenesis and Alleviate Inflammation through HBOT

Improve Healing Processes, Both Internally and Externally, with HBOT

Source: International Hyperbarics Association

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Research: Low-Pressure HBOT Demonstrated Effective in Treating Metabolic Syndrome and Lowering Cardiac Risks

According to a study published in the Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis on January 1, 2017, low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy has emerged as a highly effective intervention for individuals with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome encompasses a constellation of conditions such as elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar, abdominal obesity, and abnormal lipid levels, collectively increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. This particular study focused on the use of 1.25 ATA (atmospheres absolute) of low-pressure hyperbarics, demonstrating notable reductions in blood sugar levels, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and insulin levels.

Read the full study: “Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Inhibits Growth-related Decrease in Muscle Oxidative Capacity of Rats with Metabolic Syndrome.”

Research: HBOT Linked to Reduced Amputation Rates

In a 2008 study, the effectiveness of HBOT in reducing amputation rates among patients with diabetic foot ulcers was evaluated. Over the course of the study, 184 consecutive patients underwent an average of 39 HBOT sessions, lasting 60 to 120 minutes each day, six times a week. Patients’ progress was assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results showed that following HBOT treatment, 62 percent of patients achieved complete healing, 17 percent showed no improvement, and 21 percent required amputation. HBOT’s success was attributed to its ability to address hypoxic tissue through mechanisms such as angiogenesis, fibroblast replication, collagen synthesis, revascularization, epithelialization, and enhanced leukocyte bactericidal activity. The study concluded that HBOT can effectively decrease major amputation rates in diabetic foot ulcers by facilitating tissue repair, particularly when conventional treatments have proven ineffective.

Read the full study: “Can major amputation rates be decreased in diabetic foot ulcers with hyperbaric oxygen therapy?” .

Research: mHBOT's Impact on Diabetes

Recent findings, published in the April 2018 issue of the Journal of Diabetes, corroborate the reported advantages of mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (m-HBOT) for individuals with diabetes. The study suggests that m-HBOT can offer substantial benefits to individuals with diabetes, with results showing reductions in fasting and non-fasting glucose levels, as well as improvements in HbA1c and triglyceride levels.

Read the full study: “Mild hyperbaric oxygen inhibits the growth-related decline in skeletal muscle oxidative capacity and prevents hyperglycemia in rats with type 2 diabetes”.