Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, commonly abbreviated as HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy), is a medical treatment method where the patient breathes pure oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure inside a pressure chamber. The method has been used for decades in healthcare and is becoming increasingly popular in wellness, sports recovery, and longevity.
How Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Work?
During an HBOT session, you are placed in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber where the pressure is raised to between 1.3 and 2.0 ATA (atmospheres absolute). At this elevated pressure, your lungs can absorb significantly more oxygen than at normal atmospheric pressure. The extra oxygen dissolves in the blood plasma and is transported to all parts of the body — even to areas with reduced blood circulation.
The process stimulates the body’s natural healing processes by:
- Increasing oxygen delivery to damaged tissues
- Reducing inflammation and swelling
- Stimulating the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis)
- Strengthening the immune system against infections
- Promoting stem cell production and tissue repair
What Are the Benefits of HBOT?
Research on hyperbaric oxygen therapy is growing steadily, and the treatment is used today for a wide range of conditions and purposes.
Medical Applications
HBOT is an established treatment method for chronic wounds that do not heal, radiation injuries after cancer treatment, carbon monoxide poisoning, and certain infections. Healthcare has used hyperbaric chambers since the 1960s, and the treatment is approved for over 14 medical indications internationally.
Sports Recovery
An increasing number of elite athletes and sports teams are investing in hyperbaric oxygen chambers for faster recovery. The increased oxygen supply helps repair muscle damage, reduce lactic acid, and shorten recovery time after intense training or injuries.
Wellness and Longevity
In the wellness industry, HBOT has become a sought-after treatment. Studies have shown that regular hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve cognitive function, increase energy levels, and potentially slow certain age-related processes at the cellular level, including telomere length.
What Happens During an HBOT Session?
A typical session in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. Here is the step-by-step process:
- Preparation: You change into comfortable clothing and remove metal objects.
- Pressurization: The chamber is sealed and the pressure is gradually raised. You may feel pressure in your ears, similar to the sensation during a flight.
- Treatment: At full pressure, you breathe in pure oxygen. Many people use the time to rest, meditate, or listen to music.
- Depressurization: The pressure is slowly lowered back to normal atmospheric pressure.
Most people find the treatment relaxing and comfortable. For best results, a series of 10–40 sessions is usually recommended, depending on treatment goals.
Types of Hyperbaric Oxygen Chambers
There are mainly two types of HBOT chambers:
Monoplace Chambers (Single-Person)
These chambers are designed for one person at a time. They are compact, easy to install, and are ideal for private individuals, smaller clinics, and wellness centers. Nordic Welltech offers several models in this category, such as the Oxylife I80 and Oxylife I90.
Multiplace Chambers (Multi-Person)
Larger chambers that accommodate multiple people simultaneously. These are primarily used by hospitals, larger clinics, and professional sports facilities. Models such as the Oxylife C3 and Oxylife C5 belong to this category and offer space for up to five people.
Is HBOT Safe?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is considered a safe treatment method when performed with certified equipment and according to recommended protocols. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as ear pressure or temporary nearsightedness that normalizes after treatment.
It is important to use quality-assured equipment from established manufacturers. Nordic Welltech’s HBOT chambers from Oxyhelp are CE-marked and manufactured according to European quality standards.
HBOT in Scandinavia
Interest in hyperbaric oxygen therapy is growing rapidly in Sweden and the rest of Scandinavia. An increasing number of clinics, spas, and private individuals are investing in their own HBOT equipment. Nordic Welltech is the leading supplier of hyperbaric oxygen chambers in Scandinavia and offers everything from consultation and installation to training and ongoing support.
Get Started with HBOT
Are you interested in offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy at your clinic, or do you want to invest in your own HBOT chamber for home use? Nordic Welltech helps you find the right solution based on your needs and circumstances.
Book a free video consultation with our experts to learn more about which hyperbaric oxygen chamber is right for you.
The information on this page is for general information and educational purposes only. Nordic Welltech sells equipment and technology — we do not provide medical services, give medical advice, or make diagnoses. The content on this page should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health.