A hyperbaric chamber is a pressurized enclosure used for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). During treatment, you breathe pure oxygen inside the chamber. The increased pressure allows your lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen than at normal air pressure.
During an HBOT session, you enter a sealed chamber that is pressurized to 1.5–3.0 times normal atmospheric pressure (measured in ATA — atmospheres absolute). You breathe 100% oxygen for the duration of the session, typically 60–90 minutes.
At higher pressure, oxygen dissolves more readily into your blood plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and tissues — reaching areas with reduced blood flow that red blood cells can't easily access. Proponents of HBOT believe this oxygen-rich environment may support the body's natural healing processes.
A rigid, single-person chamber typically found in hospitals and dedicated HBOT clinics. Pressurizes to 2.0–3.0 ATA. Used for FDA-cleared medical indications and generally considered the clinical standard.
A large walk-in chamber that treats multiple patients simultaneously. Patients breathe oxygen through masks or hoods. Found in larger medical centers and allows a technician to accompany patients inside.
A flexible, lower-pressure chamber (typically 1.3–1.5 ATA) used in wellness centers, chiropractic offices, and home settings. Lower cost and more accessible, but operates at lower pressures than hard shell chambers.
Hyperbaric chamber clinics offer oxygen therapy for a range of conditions. Some are FDA-cleared indications, while others are areas where research is still developing. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on your specific situation.
Before your first session, the clinic will typically do an intake consultation to review your medical history and treatment goals. Some clinics require a physician referral, especially for medical-grade (2.0+ ATA) treatments.
During the session, you'll lie or sit comfortably inside the chamber. You may feel pressure in your ears (similar to an airplane) as the chamber pressurizes. Many patients read, watch videos, or simply rest during treatment.
Most treatment protocols involve 20–40 sessions, though some conditions may require more or fewer. Sessions are typically scheduled daily or several times per week.
HBOT is generally considered safe when administered by trained professionals, though it carries risks including barotrauma (ear and sinus pressure), temporary vision changes, and in rare cases, oxygen toxicity or more serious complications. Your healthcare provider can help you understand the risks for your specific situation. Choose a clinic with proper equipment, trained staff, and ideally physician supervision.
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