When you start hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), one of the first questions many patients ask is: “How does my doctor know what pressure and time I need in the chamber?”
It would be great if the answer were as simple as flipping a coin, but the truth is more complex. At Noah Clinics, every treatment plan is carefully tailored based on your unique condition, medical history, and treatment goals. Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense.
Why Pressure Matters
In hyperbaric oxygen therapy, you breathe 100% oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. The amount of pressure—measured in ATA (atmospheres absolute)—determines how deeply oxygen can penetrate into your tissues and how your body responds.
- Lower pressures (1.3–1.7 ATA): Often used for neurological conditions, inflammation, and softer tissue problems. These gentler settings encourage healing without overwhelming sensitive systems like the brain.
- Higher pressures (2.0–2.8 ATA): Commonly used for wound care, injuries, and deeper tissue repair. These stronger settings drive oxygen further into damaged tissue and support more intensive healing.
So, the condition being treated is the main factor in selecting your pressure setting.
What If I Have More Than One Condition?
Many patients come to us with overlapping issues—for example, a neurological condition combined with a wound or injury. In those cases, our approach is cautious and progressive.
Neurological issues, in particular, require careful handling. While lower pressures are safe and effective for brain-related conditions, it isn’t as simple as “turning up the pressure” and hoping the brain follows along. Instead, we gradually build tolerance over the first few sessions to ensure your body adjusts safely and comfortably.
What About Time in the Chamber?
Patients often ask: “If I start at a lower pressure, can I just stay in the chamber longer to make up for it?”
The answer is yes—to a degree. Most hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions last 60–90 minutes, which is the optimal window for both effectiveness and safety. Treatments are measured in oxygen treatment units (OTUs), a formula that calculates how much oxygen your body absorbs during each session.
At Noah Clinics, we make sure your sessions deliver enough oxygen for healing while staying within safe limits.
The Bottom Line
Every HBOT protocol is personalized. The right pressure and duration depend on what we’re treating, how your body responds, and your overall health. What stays the same is our commitment to safety, precision, and results.
At Noah Clinics, our medical director reviews every case and designs a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. We’ll answer your questions in detail during your free initial consultation so you know exactly how and why your therapy is customized for you.
HBOT is not one-size-fits-all. It’s tailored to your journey of healing, performance, and wellness.
