Effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in rheumatoid arthritis

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized as a symmetric, inflammatory, peripheral polyarthritis, arising from an autoimmune response primarily affecting women. Synovial hypoxia is characterized by a reduced oxygen partial pressure (pO2), involved in RA pathophysiology. Hypoxia leads to the induction of angiogenesis, inflammation, apoptosis, cartilage erosion, abnormal energy metabolism, and oxidative damage. Objective: The objective of the study is to examine the contemporary understanding of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a treatment modality for rheumatoid arthritis. HBOT is a non-invasive medical procedure wherein patients inhale nearly 100% oxygen within a hyperbaric chamber that is pressurized to levels exceeding those of sea level pressure (1 atmosphere absolute or ATA). Results: The study indicates that HBOT offers advantages for patients with RA, including alleviation of pain, reduction of inflammatory responses, and enhancement of physical activity. Further research is required to establish the efficacy of HBOT in the context of RA.