6 Ways Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) treats Bell’s Palsy

by Dr. Kilcup | May 15, 2024 | Articles, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for Bell's Palsy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) treats Bell’s Palsy and various other neurological conditions and can have great success. Other neuro conditions that HBOT helps include stroke, traumatic brain injury, birth injuries, sudden hearing loss, sudden vision loss, and others.

The primary reason HBOT is so helpful with all neurological conditions like Bell’s Palsy due its powerful reduction in swelling effect. Reducing swelling a little bit can help lower pressure on the nerve and make blood flow and oxygen delivery better. When a nerve is damaged, HBOT can help it heal faster by reducing inflammation and promoting repair.

Helping the facial nerve heal faster can reduce long-term problems with how your face looks and works. Patients can have a better smile and improved eyelid function. Drooling, taste issues, and other problems can be reduced. They don’t have to wait a long time for things to get better on their own.

HBOT works BETTER than Steroids

This study compared two treatments for Bell’s palsy: HBOT and prednisone. They studied 79 people with Bell’s palsy, splitting them into two groups. One group got HBOT where they breathed pure oxygen under high pressure, while the other group got prednisone pills. They did this treatment for several weeks and then followed up with the patients for nine months.

The results showed:

  • More people who got HBOT fully recovered from Bell’s palsy compared to those who got prednisone.
  • HBOT patients got better faster, in about 22 days on average, while those who got prednisone took about 34.4 days to get better.
  • Nerve function improved more with HBOT than with prednisone.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for Bell’s Palsy: Promising Treatment

For Bell’s palsy therapy, doctors often give medicines to ease pain and reduce swelling, like Prednisone. Steroids like Prednisone come with some serious health problems.

Health Problems Associated with Steroids:

  1. Increased Appetite and Weight Gain: Prednisone can cause a significant increase in appetite, leading to weight gain.
  2. Mood Changes: Some individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, or even depression while taking Prednisone.
  3. Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can occur as a side effect of Prednisone.
  4. Increased Risk of Infections: Prednisone suppresses the immune system.
  5. Fluid Retention: Prednisone can cause retention of sodium and water, leading to swelling in the extremities and face.
  6. Increased Blood Sugar Levels
  7. Osteoporosis: Long-term use of Prednisone can lead to bone density loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
  8. Gastrointestinal Issues: Prednisone can irritate the lining of the stomach, leading to symptoms such as indigestion, heartburn, or stomach ulcers.
  9. Skin Changes: Prednisone can cause thinning of the skin, easy bruising, and increased susceptibility to skin infections.
  10. Adrenal Suppression: Prolonged use of Prednisone can suppress the adrenal glands, leading to adrenal insufficiency when the medication is stopped suddenly.

HBOT causes none of these health problems. HBOT works better by treating the root causes of the signs and symptoms. Furthermore, HBOT addresses any remaining nerve damage, which is something medications can’t accomplish. Faster healing and reduced inflammation of the facial nerve result in less nerve damage and lower reliance on physical and surgical treatments.

HBOT can speed up healing, reduce discomfort and facial distortion, and promote a quicker recovery.

How does HBOT treat Bell’s Palsy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) works for neurological problems by delivering high concentrations of oxygen to tissues under increased atmospheric pressure.

6 Ways Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) treats Bell’s Palsy:

  1. Increased Oxygen Delivery: HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which significantly increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the bloodstream. This oxygen-rich blood is then delivered to tissues throughout the body, including areas with compromised blood flow due to surgery.
  2. Promotes Healing: Oxygen is essential for cellular metabolism and the healing process. By delivering high levels of oxygen to tissues, HBOT helps to stimulate the growth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) and enhance the production of collagen, which are crucial for wound healing and tissue repair after surgery.
  3. Reduces Inflammation: HBOT has anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation in tissues affected by surgery. This can alleviate pain, improve tissue oxygenation, and facilitate the removal of toxins and metabolic waste products.
  4. Enhances Immune Function: HBOT boosts the immune system, promoting the body’s ability to fight infection and reduce the risk of post-surgical complications such as wound infections.
  5. Prevents Tissue Damage: In surgical procedures where blood flow may be compromised, such as in tissue grafts or flaps, HBOT can prevent tissue damage by providing oxygen directly to these areas, reducing the risk of tissue necrosis or graft failure.
  6. Faster Recovery: By promoting tissue healing, reducing inflammation, and enhancing immune function, HBOT can lead to faster recovery times after surgery. Patients may experience reduced pain, improved wound healing, and a shorter hospital stay.

Start Today!

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Bell’s palsy is safe for people across all age groups. HBOT rarely results in complications or side effects when preformed under proper medical supervision. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a good option for treating Bell’s palsy. It is easy, helps symptoms get better, and speeds up healing and recovery.

Our office is ready to welcome you for treatment if you live in Phoenix, Arizona! We have multiple hard-shell chambers capable of reaching the pressures needed to treat Bell’s Palsy. Our staff are qualified and Certified Hyperbaric Technicians (CHT) under Dr. Kilcup’s direction. Located at 7016 N 27th Ave – fill out the new patient form below or call our office to get started!

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long do the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy last?

The duration of the effects of HBOT can vary based on the individual’s condition and the specific goals of the therapy. In some cases, the effects of HBOT may be immediate and short-lived, while in other cases, multiple sessions of HBOT may be required to achieve longer-lasting benefits.


How often should you do hyperbaric oxygen therapy?


The frequency of HBOT sessions can vary depending on the individual’s condition, treatment goals, and the recommendation of a healthcare professional. Typically, HBOT is administered as a series of sessions. It ranges from a few to several sessions over a specified period.


How quickly does hyperbaric oxygen therapy work?


The speed at which HBOT works can vary depending on the individual’s condition and the specific goals of the therapy. Some individuals may experience immediate improvements or relief of symptoms after a few sessions of HBOT, while others may require multiple sessions over a longer period of time to see noticeable effects. The timeframe for experiencing the benefits of HBOT can be different for each person, and it is best to consult with a healthcare professional experienced in HBOT to get a better understanding of the expected timeline.


How can I find an HBOT chamber near me?


We are located in Phoenix, Arizona, but if you live far away I recommend reading my article on finding the right clinic for you.

Darrell Kilcup, DC, CFMP

Hi there! I’m Dr. Kilcup. You know that health problem you’ve been dealing with – the one that doctors can’t seem to solve, that’s stealing way too much of your time, energy and joy? I can help you get to the bottom that. I am passionate about using the best of science and nutrition to find and fix root causes of health issues. Start your journey towards healing and relief today.

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Overall Rating
5.0 17 reviews
Been going to Dr. Kilcup for 5+ yrs now off and on for chiropractic care. He has a great energy about him, and his family staff are always kind and professional. I had my first real hyperbaric oxygen experience today which was great. I can't attest to "results" yet of course, but the science is clear all the ways it can bring healing to the body. So I am excited this is the first of many treatments! I will do a post review once I get a bunch under my belt. Also, I had never realized Dr. Kilcup was also a functional medicine practitioner. Talk about divine intervention! I have some other health issues to work through, and now I already have the person I have been looking for. Praise Jesus!
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Ben Reynolds Avatar
Ben Reynolds
2 days ago
Had a wound from vascular occlusion on my face and it healed at magic speed after a few sessions of HBOT
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Marissa Marzella Avatar
Marissa Marzella
1 week ago
I LOVE hyperbaric oxygen therapy. I felt incredible even after just one session. I’m healing from a concussion from a few months ago and adrenal fatigue. Hyperbaric at Dr. Kilcup’s office has definitely improved my sleep & overall calmness while I navigate through restoring my health back to normal. Highly recommend. So worth it. Buy a package and don’t look back! 🙂
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Julie Kersjes Avatar
Julie Kersjes
5 months ago
I am so happy and grateful to have found Dr. Kilcup!! He is extremely patient, kind and compassionate, and takes the time to really listen and educate about the practices and treatments. I am seeing him for treatment for multiple things (hyperbaric oxygen, chiropractic care, functional medicine) and he has surpassed any other previous doctors and specialists I’ve seen before. I highly recommend working with him and his staff!
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Taylor Wray Avatar
Taylor Wray
7 months ago
The office staff is very friendly and helpful, the chamber is very effective for health benefits. Have been trying out the red light therapy as well. I highly recommend this place.
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Brandon M Avatar
Brandon M
7 months ago