Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy & Cerebral Palsy

A few months back, we briefly reported on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a treatment for cerebral palsy. The internet is full of stories about this treatment, some parents and doctors swearing by it, others not so sure, and still others adament about its deleterious effects.

It seems we're all still left with the ponderable "maybe." Yesterday's article in the New York Times discusses the potential value for this therapy, but is quick to point out that the treatment for cerebral palsy, in particular, is unproven.

Several other sources back this sentiment. The Department of Health & Human Services released a report in 2003 addressing hyperbaric oxygen therapy for cerebral palsy, and after a through review of research studies and literature, the treatment remains unproven - a giant question mark.

A article from the journal Pediatrics in 2000 goes as far as to suggest a correlation between hyperbaric oxygen therapy and adverse effects in children with cerebral palsy.

Youtube, even, is full of videos touting and disclaiming hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for cerebral palsy.

So what's a parent to do? The same thing every other parent does: research, research, research, and consult your child's doctor.

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