“Hyper” means increased and “baric” relates to pressure. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) thus refers to intermittent treatment of the entire body with 100% oxygen at greater than normal atmospheric pressures.
The earth’s atmosphere normally exerts approximately 15 pounds per square inch of pressure at sea level. That pressure is defined as one atmosphere absolute (1 ATA). In the ambient atmosphere, we normally breathe approximately 20% oxygen and 80% nitrogen.
While undergoing HBOT, pressure is increased up to two times (2 ATA) in 100% oxygen. This increased pressure, and 100% oxygen, dissolves oxygen into the blood plasma and in all body cells, tissues, and fluids at up to 10 times normal concentration. Your blood carries this oxygen throughout your body, stimulating the release of substances called growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing.
