Chronic foot ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes. These wounds can be very slow to heal, and treatment can be prolonged and frustrating. In some cases, when little or no progress is being made with treatment, an amputation may be recommended.
Some people with diabetes are now exploring other avenues of care. In addition to traditional treatment for diabetic ulcers and wounds, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT ) has shown positive results for people with slow-to-heal wounds.
HBOT involves sitting in a pressurised chamber and breathing almost pure oxygen. This increases the amount of oxygen being delivered to damaged tissues. The high oxygen levels also stimulate new blood vessels to grow and boost collagen production, both of which aid the body’s natural healing processes. HBOT can support the immune system, too, making it harder for bacteria to multiply and helping white blood cells fight infection.
Research shows that HBOT can make a real difference. Studies have found that people with diabetic foot ulcers who receive HBOT are more likely to see their wounds heal and less likely to need an amputation. Medical guidelines also recognise HBOT as a helpful treatment after surgical cleaning (debridement ) of infected or deep wounds, when healing is slow or stalled despite other care.
Treatment is comfortable and relaxing. Most sessions last about 90 minutes, and patients can read, watch TV, or chat during the session. You’ll be fully awake and monitored throughout.
Anyone with a diabetic foot ulcer or slow-to-heal wound can find out about HBOT by visiting OxyGeneration.com to learn more about how HBOT could support your healing.
