Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Fibromyalgia
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is used in a range of medical and recovery settings and is sometimes explored by people living with fibromyalgia who are looking for additional support alongside their existing treatment plan.
At our Hertfordshire-based therapy centre, we provide access to oxygen therapy in a safe, controlled environment. Many people attend alongside the care they receive from their GP, pain management team, or other healthcare professionals.
Potential benefits of Oxygen Therapy for Fibromyalgia may include:
- Reduced pain and discomfort
- Improved energy levels
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced fatigue
- Improved wellbeing
- Support for day-to-day activities
What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body.
According to the NHS, fibromyalgia can affect people in different ways and often involves a combination of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve changes in how the brain and nervous system process pain signals.
Many people living with fibromyalgia experience fluctuating symptoms, with periods where symptoms become more severe, often referred to as flare-ups.
Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Important: If you believe you may have fibromyalgia, you should speak to your GP or healthcare professional. A diagnosis should always be made by an appropriately qualified medical professional.
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
- Widespread pain and tenderness
- Increased sensitivity to pain
- Muscle stiffness
- Extreme fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Problems with memory and concentration (“fibro fog”)
- Headaches and migraines
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Anxiety or low mood
Fibromyalgia can affect everyday activities, work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Support Fibromyalgia
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing oxygen in a pressurised chamber. This allows oxygen to dissolve more effectively into the bloodstream and reach tissues throughout the body.
As explained by University of Michigan Health, HBOT increases the amount of oxygen available to the body’s tissues, supporting natural healing and recovery processes.
Researchers investigating fibromyalgia have explored several ways in which oxygen therapy may support people living with the condition, including:
- Improved oxygen delivery to tissues
- Support for circulation
- Reduced inflammation
- Support for cellular repair and recovery
- Potential effects on how the brain processes pain signals
While research continues, some studies have suggested that increased oxygen availability may influence areas of the brain involved in pain perception and symptom management.
Together, these effects may help support comfort, energy levels, and overall wellbeing in some individuals living with fibromyalgia.
Potential Benefits for Fibromyalgia
Some people choose to explore Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy alongside their existing fibromyalgia management. Potential benefits that are sometimes discussed in relation to oxygen therapy include:
- Reduced Pain & Discomfort: Fibromyalgia is characterised by chronic widespread pain. Some individuals report improvements in pain levels while attending regular oxygen therapy sessions.
- Improved Energy Levels: Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia. Many people describe feeling more energised following consistent oxygen therapy sessions.
- Better Sleep Quality: Sleep disturbances are common in people living with fibromyalgia. Some individuals report improvements in sleep quality and feeling more refreshed.
- Improved Daily Function: Reduced discomfort and increased energy may help some people find everyday activities easier to manage.
- Enhanced Wellbeing: Many people attending oxygen therapy report a greater sense of wellbeing and improved quality of life.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not a treatment for fibromyalgia itself, and outcomes can vary from person to person.
Try Oxygen Therapy for Fibromyalgia
If you are living with fibromyalgia and would like to learn more about Oxygen Therapy, we would be happy to help.
As a registered charity based in Hertfordshire, we provide access to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in a safe, welcoming environment. We support people from across the local area who are looking to explore additional wellbeing and recovery options alongside their existing healthcare.
We are proud to operate the only group Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy chamber in Hertfordshire and work closely with people living with long-term neurological and chronic health conditions.
Research into Fibromyalgia & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Fibromyalgia is one of the conditions that has attracted growing interest within Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy research.
Several studies have explored whether increased oxygen delivery may help support symptom management and improve quality of life for people living with fibromyalgia.
A systematic review published in the British Medical Journal found that HBOT may have positive effects on pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and overall function in some individuals with fibromyalgia.
Research conducted in Israel has also investigated the potential role of oxygen therapy in improving symptoms and quality of life for people living with fibromyalgia. While results have been encouraging, further research is needed to better understand which individuals may benefit most.
HBOT is generally considered a complementary therapy that may be used alongside conventional medical care rather than as a replacement for it.
References
Fibromyalgia & Oxygen Therapy FAQs
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not a treatment for fibromyalgia itself, but some people explore it as a complementary therapy alongside their existing symptom management and medical care.
Some individuals report improvements in pain and discomfort while attending regular oxygen therapy sessions. Experiences vary from person to person.
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms reported by people living with fibromyalgia. Many individuals attending oxygen therapy describe improvements in energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Yes. Several studies have explored the relationship between HBOT and fibromyalgia, including research looking at pain, fatigue, sleep quality, and overall quality of life. More research is still needed.
There is no fixed number. Some people attend for a short period, while others choose ongoing sessions. Benefits, if experienced, are often linked to consistency over time.
No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to discuss oxygen therapy and whether it may be suitable for you.