What is HBOT therapy for Cerebral Palsy?

Over 500,000 Americans have some form of cerebral palsy today. Every year, more than 4,500 new cases exist. Cerebral palsy is not a diagnosis, but rather a descriptive term that is is used to describe a group of chronic disorders.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (also known as HBOT) is a treatment that applies 100% oxygen throughout a controlled pressure chamber (usually for about 90 minutes). HBOT increases the oxygen in the blood by 2000% and increases the level of oxygen at the cellular level.

How does this affect those with cerebral palsy?

CP is the result of damage to different motor areas of the brain. This disrupts the brain's ability to control the movement of the body's muscles. HBOT has been shown to aid in tissue swelling. Some people believe that secondary, dormant areas of the brain may be revived through this form of therapy. There is evidence that shows it does indeed work for stroke patients and there are many results that indicate this would be true for cerebral palsy patients as well.

Are there risks to HBOT? Yes, there are indeed risks. Although when HBOT is administered by a trained practitioner, the risks are minimal. Minor discomfort of the ears is a common side effect. Sitting in these chambers is like being in an airplane as it descends. Damage can occur to the eardrum, but it is unlikely.

The benefits of cerebral palsy being treated by HBOT seem to be quite positive. For more information, contact us by calling 1 800 ATTORNEY.