Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, the vast communication network that transmits signals between the central nervous system and every other part of the body. Symptoms typically begin in the hands and feet and can include burning or shooting pain, tingling and pins-and-needles sensations, numbness and loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and balance problems.

The condition affects an estimated 20 million Americans. The most common cause is diabetes, but neuropathy can also result from chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, infections, vitamin deficiencies, alcoholism, and physical trauma. Conventional treatments focus primarily on managing symptoms with pain medications, but hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers a different approach by targeting the underlying nerve damage itself.

How HBOT Supports Nerve Repair

Nerve cells are extremely sensitive to oxygen deprivation. When the small blood vessels that supply peripheral nerves are damaged, whether by diabetes, chemotherapy, or other causes, the nerves become chronically oxygen-starved. This hypoxia impairs nerve function and prevents repair of damaged nerve fibers.

HBOT floods peripheral tissues with oxygen at levels far above normal, reaching the oxygen-starved nerve fibers even through damaged vasculature. This hyperoxygenation supports Schwann cell activity, the cells responsible for producing the myelin sheath that insulates and protects nerve fibers. It stimulates growth of new blood vessels to restore permanent oxygen supply to the nerves. It reduces the neuroinflammation that contributes to ongoing nerve damage. It mobilizes stem cells that can differentiate into nerve-supporting cells. And it enhances the production of nerve growth factors that promote axonal regeneration.

Clinical Evidence

Studies on HBOT for peripheral neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy, have demonstrated measurable improvements. Research has shown reduced pain scores, improved nerve conduction velocity on electromyography testing, restoration of protective sensation in the feet, improved balance and reduced fall risk, and decreased need for pain medications. For diabetic patients, the restoration of protective sensation in the feet is particularly important, as loss of sensation is a major risk factor for foot ulcers and eventual amputation. Explore the evidence on our HBOT research library.

Treatment Protocol

HBOT for peripheral neuropathy typically involves 20 to 40 sessions at 2.0 to 2.4 ATA in a medical-grade chamber. Sessions last 90 minutes and are delivered daily, five days per week. Our physicians use nerve conduction studies and sensory testing to monitor your response to treatment objectively. Read about what to expect at your first session.

Treatment at National Hyperbaric

Our physicians, Dr. Allan Spiegel and Dr. Montana, evaluate each neuropathy patient to determine the underlying cause and design a targeted treatment protocol. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss whether HBOT can help your neuropathy symptoms. Visit our cost and insurance page and explore all conditions we treat. We offer travel for treatment support. Check our FAQ.