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​Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) treats diabetes complications, particularly diabetic foot ulcers, by delivering 100% oxygen at high pressure to improve tissue oxygenation, fight infection, and promote healing. It can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar, although it is primarily used for chronic, non-healing wounds.

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Key Benefits of HBOT for Diabetes:

• Diabetic Foot Ulcer Healing: HBOT increases oxygen supply to damaged tissues, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels and increasing collagen formation.

• Reduced Amputation Risk: By improving circulation and oxygenating hypoxic tissue, HBOT can prevent severe infections and, in many cases, limb loss.

• Enhanced Metabolic Control: Research indicates HBOT can improve insulin sensitivity and, in some cases, reduce blood glucose levels, according to findings discussed on PubMed Central (PMC) (.gov) and PubMed.

• Reduced Inflammation: HBOT helps manage chronic inflammation, a factor in diabetes-related complications.

 

Common Uses and Considerations:

• Treatment Sessions: Typically involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber for 90 to 120 minutes per session, often over several weeks.

• Targeted Conditions: Primarily approved for diabetic foot ulcers (Wagner Grade 3 or higher) that have failed to heal with conventional treatment.

• Potential Side Effects: While generally safe, potential effects can include ear pressure, fatigue, and temporary vision changes. 

 

While some evidence suggests benefits for neuropathy by reducing nerve inflammation, the primary, approved application remains wound care.

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Important Information:

• It is not recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) in some contexts, as some studies have debated the effectiveness of HBOT in increasing wound healing rates.

• According to a study published on PubMed, it is a promising treatment but should not be used as a primary solution for managing blood sugar.

• According to an analysis on the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society website, studies have shown that 70% of patients with post-HBOT glucose levels under 90 mg/dL were able to be maintained on insulin alone.