Hyperbaric Oxygen

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a medical treatment involving breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment to increase the amount of blood dissolved oxygen and tissue oxygen reserves. While the potential mechanisms of action are not fully understood, HBO may benefit symptoms of depression via increased oxygen delivery to enhance cellular/neuronal function, neuroplasticity, and reductions in inflammation. A single study has assessed the efficacy of HBO for the treatment of depression following SCI.

Discussion

One study evaluated the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen in reducing symptoms of depression compared to psychotherapy group and a conventional rehabilitation group (Feng & Li 2017). The study found both HBO and psychotherapy groups had significant reduction in symptoms of depression compared to conventional rehabilitation group.

Conclusion

There is level 1b evidence (Feng & Li 2017) that hyperbaric oxygen may improve depressive symptoms post SCI.