As people seek solutions to their challenging medical conditions, the terms “oxygen chambers,” “oxygen therapy,” and “hyperbaric oxygen therapy” often come up.
These terms are closely related but represent distinct concepts that can have a significant impact on health and well-being. Here at Hyperbaric Vermont, we feel it’s important to clarify the difference between these terms.
Oxygen Chambers
Oxygen chambers, also known as hyperbaric chambers or oxygen therapy chambers, are specialized enclosures designed to administer hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). These chambers create a controlled environment where patients can breathe oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure. This elevated pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve in the bloodstream, leading to various health benefits.
At Hyperbaric Vermont, our chambers are soft-sided, rather than metal, and are pre-set to pressurize to 1.3 atmospheres. This is known as Mild HBOT. For most conditions, studies have shown that Mild HBOT is an equally – if not more – effective treatment, and it’s much less aggressive on the nervous system.
Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy, a broader term, involves the administration of supplemental oxygen to patients who require higher oxygen levels than what’s available in the ambient air. Oxygen therapy is used to treat a range of medical conditions, from chronic lung diseases to altitude sickness. It can be delivered through various methods, such as nasal cannulas, face masks, and specialized oxygen chambers.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a specific form of oxygen therapy that takes place within a hyperbaric chamber. During HBOT, Hyperbaric Vermont patients breathe in 95% oxygen while exposed to increased atmospheric pressure. This combination of pressurized oxygen delivery enhances the body’s natural healing processes by promoting the perfusion of oxygen in the blood plasma and tissues. HBOT has been found to accelerate wound healing, reduce inflammation, aid in stroke recovery, and improve the symptoms of various conditions like decompression sickness and radiation injury.
Because our patients are breathing 95% oxygen (rather than 100% oxygen found in high pressure HBOT), they don’t run the risk of oxygen toxicity, and there is no danger of combustion in the chamber. Patients are welcome to use their electronic devices while treating.
The Hyperbaric Vermont Difference
Hyperbaric Vermont is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and making this life-changing treatment widely accessible to the Vermont community.
With treatment facilities in Montpelier and South Burlington, and affiliates in Brattleboro, East Hardwick, Rutland, Middlebury, and West Lebanon, New Hampshire, we provide a safe and controlled environment for individuals to experience the healing effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Additionally, we are known for:
Expertise
Our Founder and Medical Director, Dr. Grace Johnstone, is certified in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine. A chiropractor with three decades of experience, Dr. Johnstone brings both extensive medical knowledge to treating patients, as well as firsthand lived experience with chronic illness, as she came to hyperbaric medicine through her experience contracting Lyme Disease, which resulted in severe meningitis and radiculoneuritis.
Dr. Johnstone was completely incapacitated for a year, until intensive hyperbaric oxygen therapy brought her back to the chiropractic practice she loves, the active lifestyle she enjoys, and the energy and determination to share this powerful healing modality with others.
Mission
Our mission is to spread awareness about the potential of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and make it available and accessible to as many individuals as possible.
Multiple Treatment Centers
Hyperbaric Vermont directly offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy at our treatment facilities in Montpelier and South Burlington. Additionally, our network of affiliates extends our reach and impact around the state.
Health Benefits
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been linked to numerous health benefits, including enhanced wound healing, improved neurological function, increased energy, and reduced inflammation and brain fog. Our therapy sessions can aid in addressing a wide variety of medical conditions and improve overall well-being.
Understanding the differences between oxygen chambers, oxygen therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy is crucial when seeking medical solutions to persistent challenges. Hyperbaric Vermont stands at the forefront of providing hyperbaric oxygen therapy, contributing to improved health and quality of life.
With a commitment to education, accessibility, and cutting-edge treatment, we invite you to explore the world of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and experience the positive impact it can have on your well-being. Your journey toward a healthier, more vibrant life starts here with Hyperbaric Vermont.