Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in inflammatory rheumatic diseases

Abstract:

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves the application of 100% oxygen at pressures greater than one bar. Inflammatory rheumatic diseases include a large number of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, especially joints, but also tendons, ligaments, muscles and bones. They are manifested by inflammation, pain and impaired function of the musculoskeletal system. It is thought that HBOT in inflammatory rheumatic diseases may be beneficial due to the induction of controlled oxidative stress that causes the activation of many signalling pathways leading to potential clinical benefits such as a reduction in the inflammatory response. Cellular and molecular mechanisms by which HBOT acts on inflammatory and neuropathic pain have been studied in animal models. In the field of inflammatory rheumatic diseases, most research has been published on the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with HBOT. The results suggest that HBOT may be recommended to these patients as adjunctive therapy for reducing symptoms or even achieving remission.

Key words:
antinociception; fibromyalgia; hyperbaric oxygen therapy; osteoarthritis; rheumatoid arthritis; rheumatology