Surgery, whether minor or major, places significant stress on the body, requiring time and proper care to heal. One emerging therapy that has gained traction for accelerating post-surgical recovery is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This non-invasive treatment enhances the body’s natural healing process by increasing oxygen delivery to damaged tissues. If you’re considering HBOT after surgery, understanding its benefits and what to expect can help you make an informed decision. Below, we explore five powerful ways HBOT supports post-surgical recovery and how Santa Cruz Core at CORE offers expert guidance and treatment to optimize your healing journey.
1. Enhancing Wound Healing
Oxygen plays a crucial role in the wound-healing process. HBOT increases oxygen saturation in the blood, promoting the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and boosting collagen production—both essential for tissue repair. A study published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery found that patients who received HBOT experienced significantly improved wound healing after reconstructive surgery (1).
2. Reducing Swelling and Inflammation
Post-surgical swelling and inflammation can prolong recovery and increase discomfort. HBOT helps reduce inflammation by lowering oxidative stress and promoting anti-inflammatory cytokines. Research has shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy mitigates inflammation-related damage and speeds up tissue regeneration (2).
3. Minimizing Infection Risks
Infections can be a major complication after surgery. HBOT enhances the body’s immune response by increasing white blood cell activity and promoting antibacterial effects. Studies suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy significantly reduces the risk of post-operative infections, particularly in high-risk patients undergoing orthopedic or reconstructive procedures (3).
4. Accelerating Recovery from Soft Tissue and Bone Surgeries
Patients recovering from surgeries involving muscles, tendons, and bones—such as orthopedic procedures or sports-related surgeries—can benefit greatly from HBOT. This therapy has been shown to enhance bone regeneration and decrease healing time for fractures. A systematic review in The Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research highlighted HBOT’s effectiveness in expediting recovery in patients with musculoskeletal injuries (4).
5. Reducing Pain and Discomfort
Pain management is a critical aspect of post-surgical recovery. HBOT can help alleviate pain by reducing nerve inflammation and enhancing circulation. Clinical trials have demonstrated that patients who received HBOT reported lower pain levels and reduced dependency on pain medications (5).
What to Expect During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, typically lasting 60–90 minutes per session. Patients may experience a feeling of fullness in their ears, similar to changes in cabin pressure on an airplane, which can be relieved by swallowing or yawning. Most patients require multiple sessions for optimal benefits, depending on the type of surgery and individual healing progress.
How Santa Cruz Core at CORE Supports Your Recovery with HBOT
Santa Cruz Core at CORE provides state-of-the-art Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to aid post-surgical recovery. Their team of skilled professionals tailors HBOT treatments based on each patient’s needs, ensuring maximum healing benefits. Whether you’re recovering from orthopedic surgery, cosmetic procedures, or injury rehabilitation, Santa Cruz Core at CORE integrates HBOT with holistic wellness strategies to optimize recovery and overall well-being.
Conclusion
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a powerful, science-backed treatment that enhances post-surgical recovery by improving wound healing, reducing inflammation, preventing infections, and accelerating tissue regeneration. If you are seeking a non-invasive method to optimize your healing journey, HBOT at Santa Cruz Core at CORE can provide expert care tailored to your needs.
