As a health condition, arthritis is characterised by joint stiffness, swelling - and the associated discomfort they cause. These symptoms can affect numerous parts of the body, including the wrists, hips, backs and knees; and present themselves in more than 100 different ways. Regardless, millions of people suffer with these debilitating arthritis symptoms every day; and understandably want to explore all possible treatment options as a result.
Arthritis - The Background
As previously stated, arthritis is a condition currently affecting a significant portion of the global population. Not only is it the most common cause of disability in the States. In fact, according to the nonprofit Arthritis Foundation, more than 50 million US adults - and 300,000 children, are currently diagnosed with some form of arthritis. Research also suggests that the condition is most prevalent in women, and occurs most frequently as people get older.
No matter the sex or age of the person affected, arthritis symptoms are difficult to live with, both physically and emotionally. While many turn to traditional therapies and/or medications for relief, others have found a preferable - and more effective solution, in natural remedies such as HbOT.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK - affecting nearly 9 million people across the nation. Though it’s most common among those in their mid-40s or older; it can, however, occur at any age. In younger people, osteoarthritis tends to develop from injury; or as a result of other joint-related conditions - such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis initially affects the smooth cartilage lining of joints - leading to pain, stiffness and reduced movement within them. Over time, tendons and ligaments need to work harder as this cartilage begins to roughen and thin out. Not only does this result in the formation of bony spurs called osteophytes; severe loss of cartilage can also alter the shape of the joint - or even force the bones out of their normal position.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
HbOT is most beneficial for those with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) - an autoimmune disease that also causes severe swelling in joint linings. In the UK, this condition affects more than 400,000 people - and most commonly develops between 40 and 50 years old.
In rheumatoid arthritis the body's immune system targets affected joints; resulting in inflammation, reduced movement and intense pain. The outer covering - or synovium of the joint, is the first place to be impacted by RA. The condition then begins to spread across the affected area; resulting in further swelling, changes to the joint’s shape - or even bone and cartilage loss.
What does HbOT do?
HbOT allows a significant increase in the amount of oxygen dissolved into the bloodstream. This ‘enriched blood’ is carried to every cell within the body - even those with blocked or reduced blood flow.
You lie fully-clothed in a manually operated chamber with windows, and an oxygen mask placed over the nose and mouth to deliver the oxygen. HbOT is a non-invasive and painless procedure which clients find easy-going and relaxing. Your host will monitor you throughout to ensure you are happy and at ease.
HbOT as Treatment for Arthritis Symptoms
HbOT can help tackle arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation, reversing tissue hypoxia in the joint, reducing pain and improving range-of-movement. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has actually been found to inhibit the development of the disease process.
The effectiveness of HbOT as an arthritis treatment option has been examined for many years. In fact, as documented in a 1985 study - that’s shared with the U.S. National Library of Medicine; HbOT's utilisation of highly-pressurised, 100% pure oxygen holds the possibility to reduce swelling and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
More recent research - such as a 2016 study published in the ‘Undersea & Hyperbaric Medicine’ journal, have demonstrated similar results. Indeed, this particular study concludes that RA patients - who are undergoing HbOT treatment; may benefit from decreased joint pain, increased activity levels and improved sleeping patterns. The same study also found that HbOT decreases the need for standard rheumatological medications. As a result, this treatment option allows RA sufferers to effectively reduce - or even avoid, the associated effects of immunosuppression, altogether.
Who else can benefit from HbOT?
Research suggests that HbOT holds exciting treatment opportunities for a wide range of different health afflictions. On a cellular level, oxygen therapy helps to rejuvenate cells, supply the body with energy and support the immune system. As a result, HbOT has not only shown the ability to ease arthritis symptoms; but also assist individuals suffering from conditions such as migraines, sports injuries or long covid.
Aside from this, HbOT has even shown a potential to reverse the damage caused by some debilitating conditions. Those with Alzheimer’s and dementia - for example, could find that their cognitive function improves as a result of oxygen therapy.
Trust in Oxify
Here at Oxify, we’re passionate about the benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy - and how it can help treat debilitating conditions like Arthritis. We care about providing a solution that can truly benefit your health needs, whatever they may be. That’s why - if you don’t feel any difference after ten HbOT sessions in a two-week period; we’ll repay you in full.
Get in touch with a member of our friendly team today to find out more about how HbOT can help you.
