What Is Osteomyelitis?
Osteomyelitis is a severe and potentially life-threatening infection of the bone. It occurs when bacteria or other pathogens enter the bone through an open wound, surgical procedure, or the bloodstream. The infection most commonly affects the long bones of the arms and legs, as well as the spine and pelvis.
⚠️ Important to Know
While osteomyelitis is quite serious, the good news is that it typically is not fast-growing. However, the bad news is that it is very resistant to treatment and requires a comprehensive, often long-term approach.
Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of osteomyelitis is important for early treatment. Watch for these symptoms:
- Persistent or worsening pain in the affected bone or area
- Swelling, redness, and warmth around the infected bone
- Fever and chills
- Limited range of motion in nearby joints
- Open wounds or ulcers near the infected bone
- Fatigue and general malaise
If you have a wound that isn't healing and experience bone pain along with any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. HBOT dramatically increases the amount of oxygen delivered to body tissues, promoting healing and fighting infections—including osteomyelitis.
How HBOT Fights Osteomyelitis
Increased Oxygen Delivery
HBOT provides dramatically higher oxygen levels to the infected bone, which aids in destroying bacteria and supporting the body's natural immune response.
Enhanced Antibiotic Effect
HBOT can improve the effectiveness of certain antibiotics used to treat osteomyelitis, making your medications work better.
Stimulated Tissue Repair
Increased oxygen levels help promote tissue repair and wound healing around the infected bone.
Reduced Swelling
HBOT can help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with osteomyelitis, providing relief and supporting healing.
New Blood Vessel Formation
HBOT encourages the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), improving blood flow to the infected area and facilitating healing.
What to Expect from HBOT Sessions
HBOT is administered in a specialized chamber, and each treatment session usually lasts for about 90 minutes. Here's what you can expect:
- You'll enter a comfortable hyperbaric chamber
- The chamber will be pressurized with pure oxygen
- You can relax, watch TV, or rest during treatment
- Sessions are painless and generally well-tolerated
- The number of sessions depends on the severity of your osteomyelitis and your individual response to therapy
✅ HBOT Safety
HBOT is generally safe when administered by trained professionals. It's essential to follow all safety guidelines and inform us of any medical conditions or concerns you may have. We'll ensure HBOT is appropriate for your situation.
A Comprehensive Approach
Osteomyelitis is a serious condition that requires prompt and comprehensive treatment. HBOT is often used as part of a multi-modal treatment approach that may also include:
- Long-term antibiotic therapy
- Surgical debridement (removal of infected tissue)
- Wound care for any associated wounds or ulcers
- Management of underlying conditions like diabetes
If you have been diagnosed with osteomyelitis or are experiencing symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. We will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include HBOT along with other therapies to effectively manage osteomyelitis and promote healing.