A therapy used for decades is now aiding veterans with treatment-resistant PTSD in the Villages, Central Florida. Despite ongoing debate about its efficacy, research shows promise, according to Dr. Mohamed Elamir. Retired Army Colonel Andy Smith, diagnosed with PTSD at 55, experienced relentless nightmares. Last August, he began a 12-week program at Aviv Clinics, involving two-hour sessions, five days a week, in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, which delivers 100% oxygen in a pressurized environment to enhance oxygen concentration in cells.

Dr. Elamir explains that the treatment combines cognitive training with physical and dietary plans, addressing brain changes due to war trauma. Traditionally used for wound healing and decompression sickness, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has shown remarkable improvements in the brains of veterans with PTSD, according to a clinical trial by Aviv’s head researcher, published in February. The majority of participants no longer met PTSD criteria and showed symptom relief.

Andy reports a 30% improvement in brain function post-therapy. Although HBOT for PTSD is not FDA-approved and is expensive without insurance coverage, Andy finds it worthwhile, noting that unlike drugs or alcohol, it genuinely helps alleviate his PTSD symptoms. Potential risks include ear damage, but the therapy has provided significant benefits for him. More information is available on firstcoastnews.com.