Before Your First Session
Your HBOT journey begins before you ever step into the chamber. During your initial consultation with Dr. Allan Spiegel, our physicians will review your medical history, discuss your condition, and explain your personalized treatment plan. You will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for your sessions. Have questions beforehand? Check our frequently asked questions page.
On the day of your first treatment, wear comfortable, loose-fitting cotton clothing. Avoid applying lotions, perfumes, deodorants, hair products, or cosmetics, as petroleum-based products can be a safety concern in high-oxygen environments. Eat a light meal before arriving and stay well hydrated.
Arriving at the Clinic
When you arrive at National Hyperbaric, our friendly staff will greet you and walk you through the process. You will change into provided cotton scrubs if needed, and a trained hyperbaric technician will review the session procedure with you, answer any last-minute questions, and help you get comfortable. Traveling from out of state? Our team provides full support for patients coming from across the country.
Inside the Chamber
Our monoplace chambers are designed with patient comfort in mind. The clear acrylic walls allow you to see your surroundings at all times, and a two-way communication system lets you speak with your technician throughout the session. It is important to understand the difference between our medical-grade chambers and mild home units — clinical chambers deliver far higher therapeutic oxygen levels.
The session begins with a gradual pressurization phase lasting about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, you may feel pressure in your ears — similar to the sensation during airplane takeoff. Your technician will guide you through simple equalization techniques like swallowing, yawning, or gently blowing with your nose pinched.
During Treatment
Once the chamber reaches treatment pressure, you simply relax and breathe normally. Many patients watch television on the provided screen, listen to music, or take a nap. The treatment phase typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes depending on your protocol. Throughout the session, your body is absorbing healing oxygen that stimulates new blood vessel growth and stem cell mobilization.
After Your Session
Depressurization takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and is gradual and comfortable. Most patients feel energized after their session, though some experience mild fatigue. You can resume normal activities immediately — there is no downtime required.
Your Treatment Journey
The first session is just the beginning. Most treatment protocols involve 20 to 40 sessions scheduled five days per week. Learn more about insurance coverage and payment options. As you progress through your treatment course, our team monitors your healing and adjusts your plan as needed.
Ready to start your healing journey? Learn more about what HBOT is and how it works, browse our treatable conditions, or book your free consultation today.