The role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for treating spinal cord injury: Mechanisms, considerations, and research outcomes

Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents formidable challenges, with current regenerative treatments such as stem cell therapy and spinal stimulation showing inconsistent results in clinical trials. Advances in understanding the pathophysiology of SCI have directed regenerative strategies toward reducing inflammation and promoting angiogenesis. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), typically applied in pulmonary and dermatological contexts, emerges as a promising off-label treatment for SCI. This manuscript examines HBOT's mechanisms, clinical considerations, and outcomes in SCI, emphasizing its potential to enhance oxygenation, stimulate angiogenesis, reduce inflammation, and modify gene expression. Although further research is required to validate its efficacy fully, our analysis indicates that HBOT could significantly improve motor and sensory recovery in SCI patients, positioning it as a valuable therapeutic option. • HBOT boosts oxygenation, aiding neural survival and spinal cord healing. • Reduces inflammation, improving motor/sensory recovery in SCI patients. • Pre-clinical studies show motor gains with early HBOT use post-injury. • Clinical data show HBOT reduces pain, anxiety, and improves outcomes.