A new meta-analysis pooled 15 randomized controlled trials to see whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps people with traumatic incomplete spinal cord injury. The treatment was compared with conventional treatments alone.
The review found that adding hyperbaric oxygen was linked to better scores on several measures. Motor scores improved by a mean difference of 10.30 points, and sensory scores improved by 29.29 points. Light touch and pinprick scores also improved. Daily living scores, measured by the Barthel Index and the Functional Independence Measure, improved by 16.60 and 17.41 points.
The review did not report safety information, so it is not clear how well the treatment was tolerated or whether there were side effects. The authors also noted methodological limitations and possible publication bias, which means the results should be viewed with caution.
This is a summary of existing evidence, not proof that hyperbaric oxygen causes recovery. More high-quality, multi-center randomized trials are needed. People with spinal cord injury should talk with their care team about whether this therapy is appropriate for them.
Common questions
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing oxygen in a pressurized chamber. In this meta-analysis, it was added to conventional treatments for people with traumatic incomplete spinal cord injury. The review found links to better motor and sensory scores, but it did not report how the therapy was given or for how long.
How much did people improve in the study?
The review reported mean differences: 10.30 points on the ASIA motor score, 29.29 on the sensory score, 9.84 on light touch, 8.75 on pinprick, 16.60 on the Barthel Index, and 17.41 on the Functional Independence Measure. These are average group differences, not guarantees for any one person.
Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe for spinal cord injury?
The meta-analysis did not report adverse events, serious adverse events, discontinuations, or tolerability. Because safety information is missing, it is not possible to say how safe or well tolerated the treatment was in these trials. Ask your doctor about risks and whether this therapy is right for you.
Does this mean hyperbaric oxygen cures spinal cord injury?
No. This was a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials that found links between hyperbaric oxygen and better scores. The authors noted methodological limitations and potential publication bias, and they called for further high-quality, multi-center randomized controlled trials. It does not prove that the therapy causes recovery.
