Aviv Clinics Highlights Study on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Fibromyalgia from Childhood Sexual Abuse

A recent study has revealed that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) outperforms standard pharmacological treatments in alleviating symptoms of fibromyalgia, especially in patients with a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Conducted by the Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Research at Shamir Medical Center, the study was published in Nature’s Scientific Reports journal. The investigation highlights significant improvements in physical symptoms, emotional health, and daily functioning among fibromyalgia patients treated with HBOT compared to those receiving conventional medications.

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition manifesting as widespread pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues. Although its exact causes remain unclear, it is believed that a combination of genetic factors and various triggers, including traumatic experiences like CSA, contribute to the onset of FMS. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of HBOT in treating fibromyalgia in those affected by CSA, comparing it to the standard pharmacological approach.

In this randomized clinical trial, 48 participants were divided into two groups: one receiving HBOT and the other undergoing standard medication treatment. The results showed that HBOT led to considerably better outcomes in terms of physical and emotional well-being, as well as daily activities, than traditional pharmacological treatments.

Dr. Shai Efrati, a leading researcher and chair of Aviv Scientific’s Medical Advisory Board, emphasized the study's findings, noting that HBOT brought about significant improvements in both physical and emotional symptoms, along with enhanced daily functioning. Importantly, HBOT was found to be safe, with the most common side effect being mild middle ear barotrauma, which resolved with a short break from treatment. Dr. Efrati pointed out that HBOT not only outperforms current medications but also has fewer side effects.

This study is part of a broader research initiative exploring HBOT's effects on various forms of fibromyalgia. Previous research has also demonstrated HBOT's superiority over medications in treating fibromyalgia triggered by traumatic brain injuries. HBOT involves administering 100% oxygen at elevated pressure, which is believed to aid in healing and regenerating brain and body tissues.

Aviv Clinics, an advanced brain treatment center, employs a unique HBOT protocol called the hyperoxic-hypoxic paradox, which alternates oxygen levels during treatment in multiplace chambers. This approach has been used to treat conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, long COVID, age-related cognitive decline, and fibromyalgia.

The Aviv Medical Program offers a comprehensive treatment plan, including HBOT, cognitive and physical training, and dietary coaching. Each patient undergoes an extensive assessment to personalize their treatment schedule. The HBOT sessions take place in advanced, comfortable multiplace chambers with medical staff present to ensure safety. The increased pressure in the chambers optimizes oxygenation, creating an environment conducive to healing damaged tissues.

Aviv Clinics is at the forefront of brain-related treatment research, aiming to maximize human performance. Partnering with the Sagol Center at Shamir Medical Center in Israel, Aviv Clinics is establishing a global network to provide evidence-based treatments for age-related diseases and cognitive decline. The Aviv Medical Program, developed over more than a decade of research, has treated thousands of patients worldwide under the scientific guidance of Dr. Shai Efrati.