Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A Versatile Health Tool

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) works through two principles of physics that determine how gases behave under pressure. Understanding these mechanisms explains why pressure level matters and why soft-shell chambers produce different results than hard-shell chambers like the one at OxyRenew.

The Physics of Oxygen Delivery

Boyle's Law states that as pressure increases, the volume of a gas decreases. Inside a pressurized chamber, oxygen molecules are compressed into a smaller space, increasing their concentration. At 2.0 ATA (atmospheres absolute), the pressure we use at OxyRenew, this effect is substantial. At 1.3 ATA, the maximum most soft-shell chambers reach, the effect is significantly smaller.

Henry's Law explains that the amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is directly proportional to the pressure of that gas above it. In a pressurized environment, more oxygen dissolves into blood plasma, lymph, and other bodily fluids. This is critical because plasma-dissolved oxygen can reach tissues where red blood cells cannot, including areas with compromised circulation or inflammation.

These two laws work together. Higher pressure means more oxygen molecules in a given space (Boyle) and more of those molecules dissolving into your blood (Henry). The result is oxygen delivery that exceeds what normal breathing can achieve, even with supplemental oxygen at sea level.

What Happens at the Cellular Level

Enhanced oxygenation triggers several physiological responses. Cells with adequate oxygen produce ATP more efficiently, supporting repair and regeneration. The body responds to hyperoxygenation by forming new blood vessels (angiogenesis), improving long-term circulation to damaged areas. Inflammatory markers decrease, and white blood cell activity increases, strengthening immune response.

These effects explain why HBOT has FDA approval for conditions ranging from decompression sickness to diabetic wounds, and why research continues into applications for brain injuries, post-surgical recovery, and athletic performance.

Why Chamber Type Matters

Not all hyperbaric chambers produce equivalent results. Soft-shell chambers, common in spas and home use, typically max out at 1.3 ATA. Hard-shell chambers like ours reach 2.0 ATA or higher. The physics are straightforward: higher pressure means more oxygen dissolution, more pronounced vasoconstriction (which reduces swelling), and stronger therapeutic effects.

At OxyRenew in West Hollywood, our chamber is pressurized with air while you breathe pure oxygen through a mask. This approach, standard in clinical settings, allows for precise oxygen delivery while enabling you to use phones and devices during sessions. Our protocols include oxygen breaks to manage oxidative stress during longer 90 to 120 minute sessions.

What to Expect

Sessions take place in a private, sit-down chamber. A Certified Hyperbaric Technician monitors throughout, adjusting pressure gradually during compression and decompression. You can recline, use your phone, or watch content on our courtesy iPad. Most clients describe the experience as relaxing once they acclimate to the initial ear pressure, similar to descending in an airplane.

If you want to understand how HBOT might apply to your specific situation, contact us to speak with our team, or book your first session online.