[Paininthefoot11]

Has anyone tried Hyperbaric Chamber for your RSD?
If so please tell me your story.
I asked my physician about trying it, she said she did not know how long the treatments should be or where I could get the treatment. However she also said she would see if she could get the insurance to pay for it.
I have read a little bit about HBC for RSD but really couldn't find anything current. Maybe I am just not looking ing the right places.

Thanks.

[AintSoBad]

I never tried hyperbaric, but, I did do scuba!
In the FLA Keys, Antigua, Jamaica, like that.
And, while being taught, (certified), I thought, wow, there is NO Way, I'm even getting out of bed tomorrow. (My son was doing it with me, and my daughter was just snorkeling). too young.
But, darn, if I wasn't able to get up Earlier than usual, feel better than usual, and go do it again, and again for say, four days!
No way! I couldn't believe it!
In the Keys, you can't go too deep. Every 33' is considered 'one atmosphere' so at 33 feet, you're at two. it's tough to get to 66' in the keys. But the water is generally clear, and the sun shines to the bottom! (I've not gone nite diving yet).

Oh my goodness, the relief was incredible! And,, the difference between diving and just laying in a chamber is that the O2 permiates your muscles deeper, because you're using them. If you have the cash to layout on a trip to the FL Keys, and the hotel and the training, I suggest it highly!
You'll have an instructor at your side always, and you'll do quite a bit of training on the surface (understanding the principles), then to a pool, then to the ocean, and explore the reefs!

Ever see finding Nemo? It's just like his home!

As for a chamber, I would theorize that you need to be able to move around, and 'excercise' a bit while in there. Go to PADI, (the group that certified me), google them, and get more info on diving. As for the chamber, they're expensive too, and you'd need to check with your insurance...

Hope this helps a bit.
Be well!

Pete

(PS, I have full body).

ASB

[daniella]

I had researched HBOT for myself and was thinking of doing it. I did not do it though. I just did not read that much of a benefit from people. Not to say it does not help in some ways. Like acupuncture for ex I feel it may help one with some anxiety and that in terms makes a person calmer,sleep better etc and that can in turn help the pain. Not so much it curing the pain. I feel similar with HBOT. At this point though I am thinking of alternative treatments too because any help mind or body I will take. For most people it is not covered by insurance.

[Paininthefoot11]

I'll do most anything to help with the pain and swelling. I hope the insurance will approve the HBC treatment.
The swelling seems to be getting worse, it is not recovering at night as it use to.

[firegirl]

I tried HBOT a few years ago. It was supposed to be a 5 day a week, several week series. It was very expensive & I had to pay out of pocket bc insurance would not pay since HBOT is not FDA approved for RSD. I had to go to a private office to have it done bc most places wouldnt even do it since it wasnt FDA approved. I was very excited to try it. Unfortunately, I only went to 3 sessions. It made me sooo much worse. I just couldnt tolerate it. Hope this info helps!! Good luck to you!!!

[daniella]

Firegirl I am sorry it made you worse. That is my fear in everything I try.
For rsd you have to go to private clinic because hospitals just do it for like burn victims etc. I thought one time on here I read someone's insurance covering so if you do a search it may come up. When I looked into it the place said that I should know if it is working like after 10 times. If not then it would be stopped. I am sure some doctors will string it along to make money though so just be careful on that note too. Good luck and I hope you can find what works. I swell too and the pain gets so high so can relate on that

[elijjennings]

I know there is a hospital in St. Lukes Presbyterian in Denver, Colorado. that has a chamber. Perhaps there website would have some information on the benefits? My doctor wasn't aware of the benefits/risks for RSD patients so I havent' spent much time researching the area. What I have read though it doesn't seem to have long lasting results.
My theory at this point is the less invasive the better. I also have pain levels off the chart constantly. Nothing but rest brings releif, and even then sometimes the rest if more like torture, just laying there me and the pain.
I hope you are able to find some relief soon. If you are able to find any additional information please post!
Eli

[firegirl]

There are several different brand/types of chambers too. So, make sure you use the type that is recommended for RSD. Theres a doctor in FL, Dr. Spiegel....he can tell you more....this is his specialty.