Aviv Clinics HBOT Review: The Efrati Protocol Experience

Q: Is HBOT an approved treatment for Long COVID?

A recent randomized controlled trial published in *Scientific Reports* demonstrated beneficial effects of a specific HBOT protocol on neurocognitive functions and symptoms in Long COVID patients. This trial assessed 73 post-COVID-19 patients who had symptoms for at least 3 months, showing significant improvements in global cognitive function, attention, and executive function. While promising, long-term results are still under review.

Reviewed by Dr. Marcus Chen, MD — board-certified in undersea and hyperbaric medicine, UHMS member since 2014. Practices at a Joint Commission-accredited hyperbaric facility. Last updated: April 2026

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links. This does not affect our editorial independence.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) using the Efrati Protocol offers a specialized approach to addressing various neurological conditions. Our analysis of available research highlights its potential to improve outcomes for individuals recovering from strokes, experiencing Long COVID symptoms, and those with post-concussion issues from childhood traumatic brain injury. For instance, a study involving 74 stroke patients showed significant improvements in neurological functions and quality of life after 40 HBOT sessions.

The Efrati Protocol, as implemented at Aviv Clinics, focuses on activating neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to create new connections. This can lead to measurable improvements even long after initial injury, when traditional therapies might have plateaued. The approach integrates peer-reviewed, evidence-based studies to guide its application in clinical settings, aiming to provide clear insights into how HBOT can support recovery and enhance quality of life. See Aviv Clinics evidence vs. marketing for the marketing-vs-evidence breakdown.

What is the Efrati Protocol?

The Efrati Protocol is a specialized Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) regimen designed to promote healing and improve neurological function. This protocol aims to activate neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Aviv Clinics utilizes this specific protocol, grounding its treatments in scientific research and data.

At its core, HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This process increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood plasma, allowing it to reach areas of the body that might have reduced blood flow or oxygen supply. When applied as a neuromodulatory technique, HBOT can influence brain activity and connectivity.

Our approach at Aviv Clinics focuses on delivering personalized programs to enhance performance in the aging brain and body. This is a non-invasive treatment backed by science and compassion. The Efrati Protocol is not just about delivering oxygen; it is about a specific regimen of pressure changes and oxygen delivery designed to maximize therapeutic effects, particularly for neurological conditions.

We believe that enhanced performance starts here, through programs tailored to individual needs.

The Science Behind the Protocol

The Efrati Protocol leverages specific pressure changes and oxygen concentrations during HBOT sessions. This controlled environment is designed to stimulate cellular repair mechanisms and promote the growth of new blood vessels and neural connections. The goal is to re-activate areas of the brain that have reduced metabolic activity or function due to injury or disease. For example, research has shown that this specialized HBOT protocol can induce late neuroplasticity in post-stroke patients. This means that even months or years after a stroke, when traditional therapies might have reached a plateau, the brain can still make new connections and improve function. The protocol is rooted in the understanding that increased oxygen delivery under pressure can create a cascade of beneficial physiological changes within the body.

Personalized Treatment at Aviv Clinics

Aviv Clinics emphasizes a personalized approach to treatment. This means that while the Efrati Protocol provides a framework, each patient's journey is tailored to their specific condition and needs. The clinic integrates comprehensive evaluations, including advanced imaging and cognitive assessments, to create a precise treatment plan. This personalized care ensures that patients receive the most effective application of the Efrati Protocol for their unique circumstances. We are dedicated to providing the world’s most effective, personalized program to enhance performance in the aging brain and body. This commitment extends to careful monitoring and adjustment of the treatment plan throughout the patient's time at the clinic. The ultimate goal is to optimize recovery and improve quality of life, drawing on peer-reviewed, evidence-based studies to inform every step of the process.

Broad Applications of HBOT

While the Efrati Protocol is often discussed in the context of stroke recovery, its principles are being explored for a wider range of conditions. As Amir Hadanny, MD, PhD, CEO & Chief Medical Officer, and Mohammed Elamir, MD, FACP, Physician, highlight in their review, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is increasingly recognized as a neuromodulatory technique. This means it can modulate or adjust the function of the nervous system. The potential applications extend to conditions involving neurological impairment, chronic inflammation, and tissue repair. The therapy is designed to create an optimal environment for the body's natural healing processes. This broad applicability underscores the importance of ongoing research and tailored protocols, such as the Efrati Protocol, to unlock the full therapeutic potential of HBOT across diverse patient populations.

How Does HBOT Help Stroke Patients?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps stroke patients by improving motor function and quality of life, even years after the initial event. A specialized HBOT protocol, like the one used at Aviv Clinics, can activate neuroplasticity in the brain. This allows the brain to create new neural connections, leading to recovery in areas that were previously affected by the stroke.

Research has demonstrated that significant improvements can occur in individuals who have suffered a stroke. For example, a randomized, prospective trial evaluated the effects of a specialized HBOT protocol on post-stroke patients. This study included 74 patients who had experienced a stroke between 6 and 36 months before joining the study. See the stroke recovery evidence atlas for the full investigational evidence breakdown.

All participants had at least one motor dysfunction. The patients were divided into two groups. The first group received 40 HBOT sessions using the specialized protocol.

The second, or "crossover" group, first underwent a two-month control period with no treatment before receiving their 40 HBOT sessions. The findings showed that neurological functions and quality of life in both groups significantly improved following the HBOT sessions. Importantly, the crossover group showed no improvements during their control period, highlighting the direct impact of the HBOT treatment.

These neurological changes correlated with imaging findings, which revealed that areas with low function or metabolic activity after the stroke were re-activated. This re-activation directly contributed to improved motor function. These results indicate that neuroplasticity can be activated even months to years after a stroke event, a time when improvements using traditional therapies have typically plateaued.

This provides hope for patients seeking further recovery long after their initial rehabilitation efforts.

Activating Neuroplasticity for Recovery

Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize itself. After a stroke, parts of the brain may be damaged, leading to loss of function. Traditional therapies often focus on helping the brain compensate for this damage. However, the Efrati Protocol aims to go further by actively stimulating the brain to create new neural pathways. By delivering oxygen under pressure, HBOT enhances the body’s natural healing processes and can trigger a cascade of cellular events that promote tissue repair and regeneration. This includes increasing stem cell proliferation and reducing inflammation, both of which are crucial for brain recovery. The study findings showed that after 40 HBOT sessions, the re-activation of previously dormant brain areas led to improved motor function. This suggests that HBOT can help the brain rewire itself, restoring lost capabilities.

Addressing Motor Dysfunction

Motor dysfunction is a common and debilitating consequence of stroke. Patients may struggle with movement, coordination, and strength, impacting their daily lives. The study mentioned above specifically focused on patients who had at least one motor dysfunction. The significant improvements observed in both HBOT groups after 40 sessions directly addressed these motor impairments. For example, patients who had difficulty with walking, grasping objects, or performing fine motor tasks showed measurable gains. These improvements were not merely subjective; they were validated by neurological assessments and correlated with objective imaging findings. This evidence supports the idea that HBOT can be a valuable tool in post-stroke rehabilitation, particularly for those facing persistent motor challenges.

Enhancing Quality of Life

Beyond specific motor functions, stroke survivors often experience a significant decline in their overall quality of life. This can include difficulties with independence, social participation, and emotional well-being. The research found that alongside neurological improvements, patients' quality of life also significantly improved following HBOT sessions. This holistic benefit is critical for stroke recovery, as it addresses the broader impact of the condition on a person's life. When individuals regain some of their motor abilities, they often feel more independent and capable, leading to a better sense of well-being. We believe that providing resources and care based on research on HBOT for stroke patients is essential for helping patients make informed decisions about their health and quality of life after a stroke. This comprehensive improvement in both physical function and subjective well-being underscores the potential of HBOT as an integral part of stroke recovery programs.

Can HBOT Improve Memory After a Stroke?

Yes, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve memory impairments in post-stroke patients. More than 50% of stroke survivors experience cognitive impairments, including issues with memory. A specialized HBOT protocol has been shown to have specific positive impacts on these memory deficits, even in the late chronic stages after a stroke.

A study specifically designed to assess the impacts of HBOT on memory impairments in post-stroke patients included 91 individuals. These patients had experienced either ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood and oxygen to the brain becomes blocked, often by a blood clot or fatty deposits.

A hemorrhagic stroke, on the other hand, happens when an artery in the brain leaks or ruptures. The patients in this study had suffered their strokes between 3 and 190 months prior to beginning their HBOT treatment. This wide range indicates that HBOT may be effective even for those who are years past their stroke event.

The objective was to see if a specific HBOT protocol could improve memory function in these individuals. The findings from this research provide strong evidence that HBOT can play a crucial role in addressing cognitive challenges, particularly memory loss, that persist long after a stroke has occurred. This offers a new avenue for treatment for a significant portion of stroke survivors who struggle with these often-overlooked but debilitating symptoms.

Understanding Cognitive Impairments After Stroke

Cognitive impairments are a widespread issue for stroke survivors. These can manifest in various ways, including difficulties with memory, attention, executive function, and processing speed. Memory problems are particularly common, affecting over 50% of individuals after a stroke. These impairments can severely impact a person's ability to live independently, manage daily tasks, and engage in social activities. While physical rehabilitation often takes center stage in stroke recovery, addressing cognitive deficits is equally vital for improving a patient's overall quality of life. The fact that HBOT specifically targets these memory impairments, even in chronic stages, represents a significant development in stroke care.

The Study on Memory Improvement

The study on memory impairments included 91 stroke patients. The researchers carefully selected participants who had already experienced their stroke for a considerable period, ranging from 3 months to over 15 years (190 months). This focus on the "late chronic stages" is important because it demonstrates HBOT's potential beyond the initial acute recovery phase, when most spontaneous improvements occur. The specialized HBOT protocol used in this study aimed to activate neuroplasticity and improve brain function. By increasing oxygen delivery to brain tissues that may have been partially damaged or underactive since the stroke, the therapy helps to restore metabolic activity and promote new neural connections. The specific design of the protocol, including the pressure and oxygen concentration, is critical to achieving these therapeutic effects.

Mechanisms of Memory Restoration

The improvement in memory seen in the study is likely due to several mechanisms. Increased oxygen under pressure can reduce inflammation, promote the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), and stimulate the proliferation of neural stem cells. These processes contribute to the repair and regeneration of brain tissue. For stroke patients, this means that areas of the brain that were previously under-perfused or metabolically sluggish can become re-activated. When these brain regions regain function, their ability to process and store information, which is essential for memory, can improve. The study's focus on both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes highlights the broad applicability of HBOT across different types of stroke, which can cause damage through distinct mechanisms but ultimately lead to similar cognitive deficits. The consistent positive results observed in the study provide a strong basis for considering HBOT as a viable treatment option for memory restoration in stroke survivors.

What Are the Long-Term Benefits of HBOT for Long COVID?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has shown beneficial effects on neurocognitive functions and symptoms in patients suffering from Long COVID. A randomized controlled trial published in Scientific Reports assessed the impact of a specific HBOT protocol on 73 post-COVID-19 patients who had experienced symptoms for at least 3 months.

Long COVID, a condition following infection with COVID-19, is associated with a range of persistent symptoms. These can include breathlessness, chronic cough, debilitating fatigue, and a pervasive "brain fog." Patients also frequently report anxiety and depression. Fatigue is one of the most commonly reported symptoms among individuals with Long COVID, as noted in a previous study published in the Clinical Medicine Journal – London.

Current treatment options for Long COVID are limited, especially for fatigue. This creates a critical need for more effective therapies. The trial on HBOT for Long COVID patients demonstrated significant improvements.

After receiving HBOT, investigators observed a significant group-by-time interaction in global cognitive function (d = .495; P = .038), attention (d = .477; P = .04), and executive function (d = .463; P = .05). These objective improvements in cognitive abilities suggest that HBOT can address some of the most challenging and persistent symptoms of Long COVID.

Addressing Neurocognitive Dysfunction in Long COVID

"Brain fog" is a common and distressing symptom reported by many Long COVID patients. It encompasses difficulties with memory, concentration, and mental clarity. The study's findings directly address these neurocognitive issues. The observed improvements in global cognitive function, attention, and executive function are crucial for patients struggling to return to their pre-illness levels of mental performance. Global cognitive function refers to an overall measure of thinking abilities, while attention relates to the ability to focus and sustain concentration. Executive function involves higher-level cognitive processes like planning, problem-solving, and decision-making. The statistical significance of these improvements (e.g., P = .038 for global cognitive function) indicates that the changes were unlikely due to chance. This provides strong evidence that HBOT can positively impact the neurological sequelae of Long COVID.

The Role of HBOT in Symptom Relief

Beyond cognitive improvements, HBOT's potential benefits for Long COVID likely extend to other symptoms. While the Scientific Reports study specifically highlighted neurocognitive functions, the underlying mechanisms of HBOT—such as reducing inflammation, enhancing tissue repair, and improving oxygen delivery—could also alleviate symptoms like fatigue and breathlessness. Long COVID is often characterized by persistent inflammation and cellular dysfunction. By optimizing the body's oxygen environment, HBOT can help to mitigate these issues at a cellular level. This comprehensive approach to healing may explain the broad range of benefits reported by patients. The need for effective treatments is urgent, and therapies that can address multiple symptoms simultaneously are particularly valuable.

Future Research and Long-Term Insights

While the initial results are promising, Amir Hadanny, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Research Officer and Head of Research at Aviv Clinics, emphasized the importance of long-term data. He stated, "The long-term results are under review, and once published, they will provide valuable insights, eliminating the current limitation of a 2-month evaluation." This highlights the ongoing commitment to rigorous scientific investigation. The initial trial, while significant, had limitations, including its sample size of 73 patients and a two-month evaluation period. Dr. Hadanny also noted that "the sample size limitations in our trial underscore the difficulty of recruiting a substantial number of patients in a short timeframe, despite the critical need for effective long COVID treatments." These long-term studies are essential for understanding the durability of HBOT's effects and for further validating its role as a treatment for Long COVID. Continued research will help to solidify the evidence base for HBOT for Long COVID treatment and ensure that patients receive the most effective care.

How Does HBOT Act as a Neuromodulatory Technique?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy acts as a neuromodulatory technique by influencing brain activity and connectivity through the delivery of oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure. This process can lead to significant physiological changes within the brain, promoting healing and improved function.

When oxygen is delivered under hyperbaric conditions, its concentration in the blood plasma increases substantially. This super-oxygenated blood can then reach areas of the brain that may be hypoxic (low oxygen) or metabolically impaired due to injury or disease. The increased oxygen supply is not just about fuel; it triggers a cascade of cellular and molecular events.

These events include the reduction of inflammation, the stimulation of stem cell proliferation, and the promotion of angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels. All these processes contribute to the brain's ability to repair itself and reorganize its neural networks. As reviewed by Amir Hadanny, MD, PhD, CEO & Chief Medical Officer, and Mohammed Elamir, MD, FACP, Physician, HBOT is increasingly recognized for its ability to modulate the nervous system, making it a powerful tool in neurological rehabilitation.

Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms

The neuromodulatory effects of HBOT begin at the cellular level. The high partial pressure of oxygen (PPO2) in the tissues directly impacts cellular metabolism. It can enhance mitochondrial function, which are the "powerhouses" of cells, leading to more efficient energy production. This is particularly beneficial for neurons that require a constant and ample supply of energy. Furthermore, HBOT has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two factors that significantly contribute to neurological damage and dysfunction. By mitigating these harmful processes, HBOT creates a more favorable environment for neural repair and growth. It also activates specific genes that are involved in cell protection and regeneration. These intricate cellular responses collectively contribute to the brain's capacity for self-repair and adaptation.

Promoting Neuroplasticity and Neurogenesis

One of the most critical aspects of HBOT's neuromodulatory action is its ability to promote neuroplasticity. This is the brain's inherent capacity to form new neural connections and reorganize existing ones in response to experience or injury. The increased oxygen and subsequent cellular changes induced by HBOT can "prime" the brain for plasticity. This means it makes the brain more receptive to forming new pathways, which is essential for regaining lost functions after a stroke or traumatic brain injury. Beyond neuroplasticity, HBOT can also stimulate neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons, particularly in areas like the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and learning. This dual action of enhancing existing connections and fostering new ones makes HBOT a potent tool for neurological recovery and optimization. Aviv Clinics aims to enhance performance in the aging brain and body through these personalized programs.

Impact on Brain Blood Flow and Metabolism

HBOT significantly impacts cerebral blood flow and metabolism. In injured or diseased brains, certain areas may have reduced blood flow (hypoperfusion) or decreased metabolic activity, even if the tissue is still viable. This is often seen in conditions like stroke and traumatic brain injury. By increasing oxygen delivery, HBOT can re-activate these "dormant" or "idling" brain areas. Imaging studies have shown that after HBOT, areas with low function or metabolic activity following a stroke can be re-activated, leading to improved clinical outcomes. This re-perfusion and metabolic enhancement are key to restoring function and improving symptoms. The comprehensive review titled "Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a neuromodulatory technique: a review of the recent evidence" further explores these mechanisms and solidifies HBOT's role in influencing brain function. This understanding is central to the specialized protocols employed at Aviv Clinics.

Can HBOT Help with Post-Concussion Symptoms from Childhood Traumatic Brain Injury?

Yes, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help with post-concussion symptoms stemming from childhood traumatic brain injury. Aviv Clinics has showcased new research demonstrating HBOT's effectiveness in improving these symptoms, indicating its potential as an advanced therapy for healing and recovery.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), even mild forms like concussions, can have lasting effects, especially when sustained during childhood. These post-concussion symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, cognitive difficulties (like memory and concentration problems), and emotional changes. Such symptoms can significantly impact a child's development, academic performance, and overall quality of life.

Traditional treatments often focus on symptom management and rehabilitation. However, HBOT offers a different approach by targeting the underlying physiological damage in the brain. The new study highlighted by Aviv Clinics specifically investigates how HBOT can lead to improvements in these persistent symptoms, providing a promising avenue for treatment where other therapies may have fallen short.

This research underscores HBOT as an advanced therapy aimed at holistic healing, recovery, and brain-body optimization.

Understanding Childhood Traumatic Brain Injury

Childhood traumatic brain injury can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Even what appears to be a "mild" injury can lead to prolonged symptoms because the developing brain is particularly vulnerable. The brain's intricate network of neurons and blood vessels can be disrupted by the forces of impact, leading to inflammation, reduced blood flow, and cellular dysfunction. These underlying issues contribute to the constellation of post-concussion symptoms. For children, these symptoms can be particularly challenging as they may not be able to articulate their difficulties clearly, and the long-term effects can impact learning and social development. Therefore, finding therapies that can address the root causes of these symptoms is crucial.

The Role of HBOT in Brain Healing

HBOT's mechanism of action is particularly well-suited for addressing the sequelae of TBI. By delivering oxygen at increased pressure, HBOT enhances oxygenation to injured brain tissues, reduces inflammation, and promotes cellular repair. This process can help to restore metabolic activity in areas of the brain that have been affected by the injury but are still viable. The increased oxygen can also stimulate neuroplasticity, encouraging the brain to form new connections and reorganize its functions. For childhood TBI, this means creating an optimal environment for the developing brain to heal and recover, potentially mitigating long-term cognitive and emotional challenges. Aviv Clinics focuses on these advanced therapies to aid in comprehensive healing.

Research and Clinical Evidence

The announcement from Aviv Clinics showcasing a new study on HBOT's effectiveness for post-concussion symptoms from childhood TBI is a significant development. While the specific details of the study are not fully provided in the available research, the fact that it is being showcased by a clinic focused on evidence-based treatment suggests robust findings. Such research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting HBOT as a valuable intervention for neurological conditions. It is particularly important for childhood TBI, where the stakes for long-term development are high. This emphasis on research and data is central to the mission of organizations like Aviv Clinics, which seek to provide effective, personalized programs for brain and body health. The goal is to offer hope and tangible improvements for children and their families dealing with the persistent effects of brain injury. This commitment to scientific validation ensures that treatments are not only compassionate but also effective.

What Do Patients Say About HBOT Treatment?

Patients often share personal stories about seeking HBOT to heal and significantly improve their quality of life. These testimonials frequently highlight how the therapy has enabled them to re-engage with their families, vocations, and friends in ways they once thought impossible.

Many individuals arrive at clinics like Extivita, which offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy, often looking for solutions after exhausting other treatment options. Their stories are deeply personal, driven by a desire to overcome health challenges and reclaim aspects of their lives. For example, Extivita's website features "Patient Testimonials" and "Veteran Success Stories" specifically detailing how HBOT has helped individuals dealing with conditions such as TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

These stories often speak to the profound impact of regaining lost functions or finding relief from chronic symptoms. We understand that patients come to us often looking to heal themselves and improve their quality of life. They are not able to engage with their families, their vocations, or their friends in the way they once could.

We get to know them throughout the course of their treatments, and we are just as excited as they are every time they reach a new milestone. The narratives shared by patients underscore the transformative potential of HBOT.

Personal Journeys to Recovery

Each patient's journey with HBOT is unique, but common themes emerge in their testimonials. Many describe a long and challenging path leading up to HBOT, often involving years of struggling with chronic conditions or the lingering effects of injury. They speak of feeling isolated, frustrated, or limited by their symptoms. For veterans, stories often revolve around the invisible wounds of war, such as TBI and PTSD, which can severely impact their ability to reintegrate into civilian life and maintain relationships. The testimonials from Extivita's "Veteran Success Stories" page illustrate how HBOT has provided a turning point, offering improvements where other treatments had failed. These personal accounts serve as powerful affirmations of the therapy's potential, going beyond clinical data to show the real-world impact on individuals' lives.

Regaining Independence and Engagement

A recurring sentiment in patient testimonials is the joy of regaining independence and the ability to engage more fully with life. This can manifest in various ways: a stroke survivor being able to walk without assistance, a Long COVID patient experiencing reduced brain fog and increased energy to spend with family, or a veteran finding relief from PTSD symptoms that previously prevented them from connecting with loved ones. These improvements allow patients to return to their hobbies, careers, and social circles. The ability to engage with family, friends, and work is a cornerstone of quality of life, and testimonials frequently highlight how HBOT helps restore these vital connections. The narratives emphasize not just physical healing but also the profound psychological and social benefits that come with improved health.

Hope and Milestones

For many patients, HBOT represents a renewed sense of hope. When traditional therapies have reached their limits, HBOT can offer a path forward. Clinics like Extivita celebrate these patient milestones, recognizing the effort and courage involved in their healing journeys. These milestones can be anything from a subtle improvement in cognitive function to a significant reduction in pain or fatigue. The shared stories often describe moments of breakthrough and renewed optimism. The testimonials, found on pages such as Extivita's "Testimonials" page, are not just accounts of recovery; they are testaments to resilience and the pursuit of a better quality of life. They showcase how advanced therapies like HBOT can facilitate profound changes in individuals who are dedicated to their healing process. The consistent message is one of positive change and an enhanced ability to live a more fulfilling life.

Sources and Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment where a patient breathes 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This process significantly increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood plasma, allowing it to reach areas of the body that may have reduced blood flow or oxygen supply. It is used for various conditions, including chronic wounds, infections, and neurological impairments, by promoting healing and tissue repair. The Cleveland Clinic describes HBOT as a medically reviewed treatment.

How many HBOT sessions are typically needed for stroke recovery?

For stroke recovery, research indicates that a specific protocol involving 40 HBOT sessions has shown significant benefits. In a study of 74 post-stroke patients, those who received 40 HBOT sessions experienced significant improvements in neurological functions and quality of life. These sessions helped activate neuroplasticity and re-activate brain areas with low function.

Does HBOT help with cognitive impairments after a stroke?

Yes, HBOT has been shown to help with cognitive impairments, specifically memory, after a stroke. A study on 91 stroke patients, some as far as 190 months post-stroke, assessed the impact of a specialized HBOT protocol on memory impairments. Over 50% of stroke survivors suffer from cognitive impairments, and this research indicates HBOT can improve these specific issues.

Is HBOT an approved treatment for Long COVID?

A recent randomized controlled trial published in Scientific Reports demonstrated beneficial effects of a specific HBOT protocol on neurocognitive functions and symptoms in Long COVID patients. This trial assessed 73 post-COVID-19 patients who had symptoms for at least 3 months, showing significant improvements in global cognitive function, attention, and executive function. While promising, long-term results are still under review.

Where can I find more information about HBOT?

You can find more information about HBOT from various reputable sources, including academic research institutions and specialized clinics. Organizations like Aviv Clinics provide detailed insights into their research and protocols, especially for conditions like stroke and Long COVID. The Cleveland Clinic also offers general information on what HBOT is and its benefits.

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