Addiction Recovery

Addiction Recovery: The Challenge Beyond Detox

Recovering from addiction isn’t just about breaking the cycle of substance use—it’s about healing the brain and body that have been affected by drugs or alcohol. Many people in recovery struggle with:

 

• Brain fog and poor concentration

• Anxiety, depression, or mood swings

• Sleep disturbances

• Fatigue and low energy

• Cravings and relapse risk

 

Traditional recovery programs focus on counseling, behavioral therapy, and medical management. But what if there was a way to restore the brain and body on a cellular level as part of recovery? This is where Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) may help.

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What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?

HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. Under these conditions, oxygen dissolves deeply into the bloodstream and tissues—reaching areas that are typically deprived. This extra oxygen accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and improves brain function.

 

HBOT is FDA-approved for conditions like carbon monoxide poisoning, radiation injury, and diabetic wounds. In recent years, researchers have begun studying its potential in neurological and behavioral health, including addiction recovery.

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How HBOT May Help in Addiction Recovery

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1. Repairs the Brain

Chronic drug or alcohol use reduces blood flow and damages brain cells. HBOT has been shown to stimulate neurogenesis (new brain cell growth) and neuroplasticity, helping the brain form healthier connections (Boussi-Gross et al., Neuropsychology, 2013).

 

 

2. Reduces Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms

Studies suggest HBOT may help normalize dopamine pathways, the brain’s reward system disrupted in addiction. This could lessen cravings and withdrawal discomfort (Harch et al., Journal of Addictive Research & Therapy, 2017).

 

 

3. Decreases Inflammation and Stress

​Substance use increases inflammation in the brain and body. HBOT has potent anti-inflammatory and calming effects, which may reduce anxiety and mood swings during recovery.

 

 

4. Improves Energy and Sleep

​Many patients in recovery suffer from fatigue and disrupted sleep. HBOT supports mitochondrial function—the “energy factories” of cells—helping restore natural energy and improve sleep quality.

 

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What the Research Says

• Opiate Withdrawal Study (Harch, 2017): Patients receiving HBOT during detox experienced reduced withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and some reported easier transitions into recovery programs.

• Neurocognitive Research: HBOT has been shown to improve memory, focus, and emotional regulation—key challenges for people in recovery.

• Emerging Evidence: While not yet FDA-approved for addiction, early studies and case reports suggest HBOT could be a valuable adjunct to traditional recovery programs.

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What to Expect in HBOT for Recovery

• Session Length: 60–90 minutes time at depth

• Course of Therapy: Often 20–40 sessions, depending on health and recovery goals

• Experience: Relax in a pressurized chamber while breathing oxygen—many patients describe it as calming and restorative

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HBOT is safe when performed under the supervision of trained HBOT Techs and FDA-approved chambers. Side effects are generally mild, such as ear pressure during pressurization.

 

 

 

 

Integrating HBOT Into Addiction Recovery

HBOT is not a standalone cure for addiction, but it may be a powerful complementary therapy when combined with:

 

• Counseling or therapy

• Medical management (when needed)

• Support groups and lifestyle changes

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At Revival Hyperbarics in South Jordan, Utah, we partner with patients and recovery programs to support healing from the inside out.

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Key Takeaway

Addiction recovery is a journey of mind, body, and spirit. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) may help by repairing the brain, reducing cravings, lowering stress, and restoring energy—giving people in recovery a stronger foundation for lasting sobriety.

 

If you or a loved one is in recovery and want to explore HBOT as part of healing, contact Revival Hyperbarics today for a consultation.

 

 

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