Decompression Sickness Treatment with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Decompression sickness — "the bends" — occurs when dissolved gases form bubbles in your body after rapid pressure changes. HBOT is the primary treatment for this condition.
Understanding Decompression Sickness
Decompression sickness (DCS), commonly known as "the bends," occurs when a person moves too quickly from a high-pressure environment to a lower-pressure one — most commonly during scuba diving. Under pressure, gases (primarily nitrogen) dissolve into your blood and tissues. If you ascend too quickly, these dissolved gases come out of solution and form bubbles.
These bubbles can form in joints, muscles, the spinal cord, brain, or lungs. Symptoms vary widely depending on where the bubbles form and can include joint pain, numbness, weakness, difficulty walking, dizziness, breathing problems, confusion, and paralysis. DCS requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent injury.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
HBOT is the primary treatment for decompression sickness. The increased pressure inside the chamber causes the nitrogen bubbles to shrink, reducing their ability to block circulation and damage tissue. Breathing 100% oxygen under pressure also creates a concentration gradient that accelerates the elimination of nitrogen from your body.
Additionally, HBOT delivers high levels of oxygen to tissues that may have been injured by the bubbles, supporting recovery and reducing long-term complications.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment for decompression sickness is typically administered as soon as possible after symptoms appear. The initial treatment may involve extended time at pressure using specialized protocols. Follow-up sessions may be needed depending on the severity of symptoms and your response to the first treatment.
Insurance & Coverage
HBOT for decompression sickness is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most major private insurance plans when medically necessary. Our team handles insurance verification and prior authorization so you can focus on healing.
Our team handles the paperwork so you can focus on healing. We will verify your benefits, obtain any required prior authorizations, and keep you informed every step of the way.