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TOC Talks Episode 20: “Effective Treatment for Lyme Disease”

In this episode of TOC Talks, Andrew Kistner talks with Elizabeth Terry, the Director of Medical Services at The Oxford Center, about a disease that will affect so many this fall… Lyme disease. Ticks always become so prevalent in the warm summer and fall months and Lyme disease is often not far off for those who have been bitten by a tick. Many struggle with recovering from Lyme disease, but thankfully, Elizabeth was able to share some helpful options that The Oxford Center offers. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) can help patients recover from Lyme disease, even if they have not been successful in antibiotic therapy. The Oxford Center also offers Neurofeedback Therapy and Nutritional Services to help you on your way to recovery and ensure you are operating at your best. Tune in to hear all about how these amazing options can help those with Lyme disease recover! 

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Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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Are Tick Bites a Cause for Concern? Understanding Lyme Disease  

Every summer, we all look forward to the time we’re going to spend outside with family and friends. Everything that puts a smile on our faces when we think of summer happens outside- beaches, hikes, playing with pets. With all the summer fun, though, we always seem to forget about all the pests that come out in summertime and all the insect bites we end up with… like tick bites.   

Ticks are small parasites often found in wooded areas, grasslands, and areas with dense vegetation. Ticks bite humans and animals and can spread diseases, such as Lyme disease, through their bite. It is important to understand how to prevent tick bites and how to recognize signs of Lyme disease in the event of a bite so that you can seek treatment quickly.    

What is Lyme Disease?

Tick Bite

Lyme disease is an illness caused by borrelia bacteria. This bacterium transmits through the bite of a tick carrying the bacteria. This bacterium is common in parts of the United States, Europe, and Canada. Anyone who experiences a tick bite is at risk of developing symptoms of Lyme disease, which can prove serious, permanent, and even fatal if left untreated.   

Symptoms

Symptoms of Lyme disease can vary and may develop in stages. Not everyone infected with Lyme disease will experience the same symptoms and some individuals may not display any symptoms at all. Common signs and symptoms associated with Lyme disease include:  

Early Localized Stage:  

  • Erythema migrans (EM) rash: A circular or bull’s-eye-shaped rash that expands from the site of the tick bite. It may appear within 3 to 30 days after the bite and is typically not itchy or painful.  
  • Flu-like symptoms: Fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes, and general malaise.  

Early Disseminated Stage:  

  • Multiple EM rashes: Additional rashes may develop in different areas of the body.  
  • Flu-like symptoms: Persistent fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes.  
  • Neurological symptoms: Numbness or tingling in the extremities, facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), meningitis (headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light), and dizziness.  

Late Disseminated Stage:  

  • Arthritis: Recurrent episodes of joint swelling, particularly in large joints like the knees.  
  • Neurological symptoms: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, nerve pain, and neuropathy.  
  • Heart problems: Irregular heart rhythm, palpitations, and chest pain.  

It’s important to note that these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, making a diagnosis challenging. If you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite, seek medical attention for proper evaluation and diagnosis.  

Without Treatment

If Lyme disease is left untreated, it can lead to more severe and potentially long-term complications. These complications can worsen as time goes on and can even become permanent if not addressed or addressed adequately. Severe complications may include chronic joint inflammation and arthritis, mobility issues, neurological complications, meningitis, heart abnormalities, serious cardiac issues, eye inflammation, hearing problems, memory impairment, mood changes such as depression and anxiety, and in rare cases- encephalitis and peripheral neuropathy.   

How to Prevent Tick Bites & Lyme Disease  

Lyme Disease can quickly become serious for those infected. It is important to be aware of simple ways to prevent tick bites and Lyme disease, such as:

  • Avoid tick-infested areas: When possible, try to stay away from areas with high grass, dense vegetation, and leaf litter where ticks are commonly found. If you need to be in such areas, walk in the center of trails and avoid brushing against vegetation.  
  • Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors in tick-prone areas, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into socks or boots, and a hat. Light-colored clothing can help you spot ticks more easily.  
  • Perform tick checks: After spending time in areas where ticks may be present, thoroughly check your body for ticks. Pay close attention to areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, armpits, groin, and behind the knees. Promptly remove any ticks you find.  
  • Shower after outdoor activities: Taking a shower within two hours of being outdoors can help wash away ticks that may be crawling on your body. Use a washcloth or loofah to help remove ticks that haven’t attached yet.  
  • Maintain a tick-free yard: Create a tick-safe environment by keeping your lawn well-maintained, removing leaf litter, and clearing tall grass and brush.  

Our Approach

The Oxford Center has developed a Lyme Disease Treatment Program to help you on your way to recovery. Our program includes the following services:   

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)  

Traditional treatment for Lyme disease involves antibiotics in the form of either oral, injections, or IV. Co-infections frequently require a different treatment plan than antibiotic therapy as they are not always effective for Lyme disease. The bacteria associated with Lyme disease is very sensitive to oxygen and is debilitated in a highly oxygenated environment. Research shows that HBOT makes a significant improvement when used to treat Lyme disease, even with patients who have not been successful with antibiotic therapy. HBOT decreases inflammation, oxygenates the entire body, stimulates the growth of new healthy blood vessels, and releases stem cells up to 800% more after twenty sessions. Research shows that the efficiency of antibiotics in the case of Lyme Disease has increased as new blood vessel growth allows the medication to penetrate deeper into tissues.  

Neurofeedback Therapy  

A Quantitative EEG shows us the electrical activity of the brain. We will be able to see if inflammation is present, if there are any areas of hyper- or hypoactivity, and any areas of disconnect. Patients with Lyme disease may experience Post Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) and may experience pain, neurocognitive or fatigue symptoms, headaches, brain fog, and sleep disorders. PTLDS seems to occur more frequently after Lyme disease has caused neurological complications. Research suggests that the brain becomes more sensitive to pain signals and does not reset after the infection, causing the increased sensitivity to continue. Using the information from the QEEG, we can focus on the area(s) of the brain most affected and bring those areas back into balance through Neurofeedback Therapy.  

Nutrition Services  

Finally, nutrition helps to address co-infections associated with Lyme disease. Our services will look to heal the gut, look at what is wrong, and support your body in anything else going on. Gut healing is a great tool in your health journey, and it can be essential to addressing every issue going on in your body. Nutrition coaching provides the information and support you need to learn to enjoy health-building foods, create a healthy living environment, and feel good in your body.    

TOC Talks Episode 15: “Making HBOT Accessible for Veterans!”

In this very special episode of TOC Talks, Andrew talks with Kevin Hensley to hear his incredible story with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)! Kevin is a veteran who served from 1995-2015 and was deployed 8 times to serve his country. During his time in service, Kevin developed a terminal lung disease that he was first told was just asthma until he finally got a correct diagnosis. Once Kevin did some digging, he found he also has toxic encephalopathy and found that his brain was 90% deprived of oxygen. After his diagnosis, Kevin did 80 rounds of HBOT in Arizona and was amazed about the healing potential of hyperbaric oxygen therapy! Now, it is Kevin’s mission to make HBOT accessible for all veterans who might need it through funded grants and legislation! Don’t miss out on this unique episode to hear from an amazing person trying to make a difference!

Check It Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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PTSD: Understanding Innovative Therapy Options

PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a term and condition many are familiar with, even if they do not suffer from the condition themselves or know someone personally who suffers from the condition. For those who have seen the effects of PTSD, they know how serious and debilitating the condition can really be. Some who develop this condition may lose their job, push away friends and family, lose the ability to care for themselves, fall into depression and other mental health concerns, etc. That’s why it is so important to spread awareness of the condition and promote any and all options to help treat this condition and promote recovery and healing.  

What is PTSD?  

PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, which is a psychological condition that can develop in individuals who experience or witness a traumatic event(s). In order to receive a diagnosis, a person must have symptoms that last for more than a month and the symptoms must cause significant problems in their functioning lives. In 2020, about 13 million people in the United States were diagnosed with PTSD. Statistically, women are twice as likely to have PTSD than men and we estimate that one in eleven people will receive this diagnosis in their lifetime. With such a significant portion of the population living with this condition, it is important to understand this condition and what options are out there to help heal and recover. 

What Causes PTSD?  

PTSD is a psychological condition that can develop after someone experiences a traumatic event or series of events. This condition is different for everyone, so the set circumstances in which someone develops this condition may vary between each person. Neurobiological factors, such as genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, and alterations in brain structure and function, can also play a role in the development of PTSD. 

What are the Symptoms of PTSD?  

Generally, there are four main types of symptoms for PTSD:  

  • Re-experiencing: Someone with PTSD may re-experience their trauma through recollection, flashbacks, and/or nightmares.  
  • Avoidance: Someone with PTSD may avoid anything that reminds them of their trauma and may become emotionally “numb”.  
  • Alternations in Cognition & Mood: Regular and repeated negative thoughts /perceptions about self, others, and/or the world. They may lose interest in things they used to enjoy or have persistent feelings of shame/guilt.   
  • Hyperarousal & Reactivity: This may include an increased feeling of irritability, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, being overly sensitive to threats, and being easily startled.  

In order to be diagnosed, a person must have at least one re-experiencing symptom, three avoidance symptoms, two negative alterations, and two hyperarousal symptoms for at least one month.  

The Oxford Center’s Approach to PTSD

Neurofeedback 

With this purpose in mind, The Oxford Center is at the forefront of utilizing innovative therapeutic modalities, including neurofeedback, to treat PTSD. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive technique that aims to improve brain function by providing real-time feedback on brainwave activity. By monitoring brainwave patterns, individuals can learn to self-regulate their brain activity, leading to improved emotional and cognitive functioning. 

Neurofeedback has shown promising results in treating PTSD, with research indicating its effectiveness in reducing symptoms and improving overall well-being. Studies have demonstrated that neurofeedback can lead to decreased hyperarousal, increased emotional regulation, and enhanced cognitive flexibility in individuals with this condition. 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment method that involves breathing pure oxygen. While traditionally used for conditions such as decompression sickness and non-healing wounds, emerging research suggests that HBOT may also offer benefits for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By exposing individuals to increased levels of oxygen, HBOT aims to enhance oxygen delivery to tissues, promote healing, and reduce inflammation. Studies have indicated that HBOT can have positive effects on brain function, including neuroplasticity and neurogenesis. These neuroprotective and regenerative properties hold promise for individuals with PTSD, as they may help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments, and sleep disturbances.  

TOC Talks Episode 14: “PTSD- Causes and Solutions”

In this Episode of TOC Talks, Andrew sits down with Elizabeth Terry, our Director of Medical Services, to discuss Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the causes and solutions, and what options are out there to help promote recovery! Listen in to find out how alternative treatments like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Neurofeedback Therapy can help relieve PTSD symptoms! Don’t miss out on this interesting and informative episode!

Check It Out!

Want to listen to TOC Talks without the video? Subscribe to TOC Talks on your favorite Audio or Podcast platform! 

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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TOC Talks Episode 6: “Jeff Mosteller: The Man, The Myth, The Legend!

In this week of TOC Talks, Andrew sits down with Jeff Mosteller, the Director of Training and Certification and Safety Director at The Oxford Center, to talk about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy! Together, they dive into what Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is, how it works, and all of the AMAZING possibilities that Hyperbarics offers. This is truly one special episode… listen in as an expert in the field shares some great insight into Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy!

Check It Out!

Interested in Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy? Learn more about it here.

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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Cerebral Palsy & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: An Alternative Method for Hope

Cerebral Palsy is a condition that affects approximately 500,000 people in the United States while Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is widely unknown in the States. Following a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis, many individuals and families seek specialists to provide ongoing care and treatment. These specialists may include a physical therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and/or neurologist. Many individuals and families who seek out these services find that they progress… but they also seem to plateau after a certain point. After this point, it can seem that there is nothing left to do but continue the same path of managing but not really progressing. That is, until Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy steps in.  

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a noninvasive and specialized form of medical treatment administered by delivering 100% pure oxygen to the body. Normal air only has oxygen levels of 21% so the difference is dramatic! The body naturally uses oxygen to heal, so increasing the amount of oxygen delivered to the body and into the bloodstream accelerates the body’s ability to heal and progress. The only thing the patient has to do? Breathe.  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has widespread benefits that improve and treat symptoms for many different conditions. The general healing power of HBOT makes it a promising option for what seems to be an endless list of injuries and conditions. Especially when used in conjunction with other types of therapies and/or treatments, HBOT is a tremendous tool to help individuals progress and heal.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Benefits Cerebral Palsy  

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects movement and posture. CP is caused by damage to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth. In essence, the damage to the brain that causes CP is a traumatic brain injury, so CP can be treated very similarly to a brain injury. HBOT is effective in the treatment of CP because it can increase the amount of oxygen that reaches the damaged areas of the brain. This increased oxygen can help to reduce inflammation and promote the repair to bone and soft tissue. 

Studies have shown that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is effective in improving some symptoms of Cerebral Palsy, such as spasticity, motor function, and cognitive function. HBOT is able to decrease inflammation, enhance vascular activity, encourage nerve cell growth, and improve gross motor function. Research has also shown a decrease in muscle spasms and sleep disorders for individuals with CP who have used HBOT.  

Overall, while there is no cure for Cerebral Palsy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a wonderful option to help manage symptoms, progress, and improve quality of life. Treatments can be especially effective when HBOT is used in conjunction with other therapies, such as physical therapy, intensive TheraSuit therapy, speech therapy, and more.  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at The Oxford Center 

Hyperbaric Chambers

The Oxford Center is proud to be a leading provider of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Michigan. Our facility uses the highest quality technology available, and we follow strict guidelines to ensure our patients receive the best possible care. Children who participate in HBOT love sitting and playing during their therapy, and we offer access to many different streaming services so that patients can lay back and watch their favorite movies or shows during their therapy!  

The Oxford Center has a long, personal history with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Our CEO and Founder, Tami Peterson, found HBOT while searching for something to help her daughter after doctors said there was nothing more to be done. HBOT was able to give Tami her hope back after everything else was lost, and that is what we have found to happen with many of our clients. Now, it is our mission to spread the healing power of HBOT so that others can hope again as well.  

Other Cerebral Palsy Services at The Oxford Center  

Just like every person is different, every child has different needs and therapies that will work best for them. Here at The Oxford Center, we offer a number of therapies that can help improve symptoms related to a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis. I.e., Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, Intensive Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and our Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner. This integrative approach allows every individual with Cerebral Palsy to get the therapies they need. No matter what needs you or your child may have, The Oxford Center is here to help!  

TOC Talks Episode 4: “What are Alternative Treatments for Cerebral Palsy?”

March is Cerebral Palsy month! This week we discuss what Cerebral Palsy is, a parent’s journey through diagnosing her child with Cerebral Palsy, and what ALTERNATIVE treatments are out there! In this episode of TOC Talks our host sits down with Emily Kistner, a registered nurse at The Oxford Center and mother to a daughter with Cerebral Palsy, to talk about Cerebral Palsy and how The Oxford Center gave her hope back when it was lost! 

Check It Out!

Want to see more about Gracie’s journey with Cerebral Palsy? Check out her YouTube channel below!

Gracie CP Recovery Journey – YouTube

Check out our episode and don’t forget to subscribe to TOC Talks! We can be found on all your favorite Audio or Podcast platforms as well as video podcasts on our YouTube and Facebook pages! Find us at the links below!

Want to stay connected and up to date on what is happening at The Oxford Center? Make sure to follow our Social Media Pages! If you would like to find our TOC Talks Podcast page, click on the link below.  

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Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month!

Welcome to CP Awareness month! CP stands for Cerebral Palsy, and all of March is dedicated to raising awareness about this condition, so The Oxford Center is going to join in this endeavor. Many of us may have a family member or know someone with Cerebral Palsy, but we might not actually know much about the condition. Thankfully, The Oxford Center is here to help you learn more and raise awareness about this condition!  

What is Cerebral Palsy? 

Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement, posture, and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to the developing brain, which can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or early childhood. At this point, Cerebral Palsy affects roughly 1 in 500 children worldwide, and its severity can vary widely from person to person. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Specifically, some common symptoms include poor muscle control, difficulty with balance and coordination, spasticity or stiffness in the muscles, and tremors or involuntary movements. Other symptoms may include difficulty with fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothes, difficulty with speech and swallowing, and intellectual disabilities. 

Treatment Options

There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are several treatment options that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Physical therapy and occupational therapy are often recommended to help with muscle strength and mobility, as well as to help with daily activities such as dressing and feeding. Speech therapy can also help with communication and swallowing difficulties.

The Oxford Center 

Just like every person is different, every child has different needs and therapies that will work best for them. Here at The Oxford Center, we offer a number of therapies that can help improve symptoms related to a Cerebral Palsy diagnosis. I.e. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, Intensive Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy, and our Functional Nutrition Therapy Practitioner. This integrative approach allows every individual with Cerebral palsy to get the therapies they need. No matter what needs you or your child may have, The Oxford Center is here to help!  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Chambers

Finally, one treatment option that has gained attention in recent years is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). HBOT utilizes 100% medical grade vaporized oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure which increases the oxygen in the bloodstream and tissues. The research behind using HBOT for Cerebral Palsy shows that the increased oxygen supply helps to reduce inflammation, promotes the growth of new blood vessels, and increases circulating stem cells, which heals and repairs damaged tissue throughout the body and brain and can improve the symptoms associated with Cerebral Palsy.

Overall, while there is no cure for Cerebral Palsy, there are many treatment options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It is important for individuals with Cerebral Palsy to work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, therapists, and specialists, to tailor a treatment plan to their specific needs and goals. 

Intensive Physical Therapy

Intensive Physical Therapy

Intensive Physical Therapy is five days per week for three hours each day. The main goal is to achieve maximum functional improvement. It includes exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Our Physical Therapists will use advanced techniques that have been proven to be effective in improving muscle strength, reducing spasticity, and enhancing the patient’s ability to perform daily activities. Finally, combined with our daily intensive program, Suit Therapy can accelerate the development of new motor skills that strengthen muscles and teach the brain and body how to sit, stand, and walk. 

If you know someone living with Cerebral Palsy, call the Oxford Center to find out how we can help. Call us at 248-486-3636 to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our nurses to learn more about our therapies and how they can help you on your journey.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Help Stroke Patients

Having a stroke is often a terrifying and debilitating event in someone’s life that comes with many health complications. Many stroke patients find themselves with severe challenges but little to no options for how to recover from those complications. That’s why The Oxford Center offers hope in combining Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and stroke.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke is a serious medical condition occurring when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted. This may be due to a blood clot (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Because this interruption of blood flow deprives the affected brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, the affected brain cells can die. Stroke can cause permanent disability or death, depending on the severity and location of the brain damage. For this reason, it is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment to minimize brain damage and increase the chances of recovery. 

Side Effects & Recognizing Signs of a Stroke

The side effects of a stroke can vary depending on the location and severity of the brain damage. Some of the common side effects of a stroke can include paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, loss of balance or coordination, numbness or tingling in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty swallowing, cognitive and memory problems, and emotional changes, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability. 

It’s important to recognize the signs of a stroke and seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing them. To help you remember, the most common signs of a stroke follow the acronym “FAST”: 

  • Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or be numb, so the person may not be able to smile evenly. 
  • Arm weakness: One arm may be weak or numb, so the person may not be able to raise both arms evenly. 
  • Speech difficulty: The person may have slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding others. 
  • Time to call for emergency help: With this in mind, if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, call for emergency medical help right away. Time is critical when it comes to treating a stroke and quick medical attention can reduce the risk of permanent brain damage and disability. 

Health Concerns Post-Stroke 

There are many potential health concerns that can arise after a stroke. These concerns can vary depending on the severity and location of the stroke, as well as the individual’s overall health and medical history. For example, these health concerns include: 

  • Physical impairments (weakness or paralysis, balance and coordination issues, changes in sensation) 
  • Cognitive and emotional changes (memory and concentration difficulties, depression, anxiety) 
  • Speech and communication difficulties 
  • Swallowing problems 
  • Bladder or bowel control issues 

Because of these concerns, it is important to monitor and manage your concerns with the help of a healthcare team. Your team may include a neurologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, psychologist, and other specialists as needed. Prompt recognition and treatment of any new or worsening symptoms is also important, as it can help prevent complications and improve outcomes. 

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?  

Hyperbaric Chambers

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) utilizes 100% medical grade vaporized oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure which increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood and delivered to the tissues. HBOT has been used for decades to treat various conditions, such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, diabetic foot ulcers, and chronic wounds. HBOT decreases inflammation, oxygenates the entire body, stimulates the growth of new healthy blood vessels, and releases stem cells up to 800% more after twenty sessions! In recent years, HBOT has been investigated for its potential benefits in stroke patients, both in the acute and chronic phases. 

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy & Stroke Research  

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy offers a promising alternative or complementary option for stroke recovery. Several studies have shown that HBOT can improve neurological and cognitive function, and quality of life in stroke patients by enhancing the brain’s natural healing mechanisms. Research studies have shown a significant improvement in long and short-term memory, processing speed, gait velocity, upper extremity mobility, sleep, and overall recovery with HBOT. 

A randomized controlled trial conducted by Boussi-Gross et al. (2017) compared the effects of HBOT versus no HBOT in 60 chronic stroke patients. The results showed that the HBOT group had significant improvements in brain metabolism, brain perfusion, and brain activity, as measured by PET and SPECT. Furthermore, the HBOT group had significant improvements in neurological function, cognitive function, and quality of life, as measured by various clinical scales and questionnaires. The authors concluded that HBOT can induce neuroplasticity and improve the function of chronically damaged brain tissue in stroke patients, even years after the initial event. 

Stroke Recovery at The Oxford Center 

The Oxford Center understands how important you and your loved one’s health and longevity is. We provide personalized care that is tailored to your specific needs and health through our therapy services including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Physical Therapy, Intensive Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Neurofeedback Therapy, and our Functional Nutrition Therapy practitioner to optimize health and recovery.

If a stroke has left you or a loved one debilitated with a loss of fine motor skills or inability to walk call The Oxford Center. Call us at 248-486-3636 to schedule a FREE consultation with one of our nurses to learn more about our therapies and how they can help you on your journey to recovery after a stroke.

Boussi-Gross, R., Golan, H., Fishlev, G., Bechor, Y., Volkov, O., Bergan, J., Friedman, M., Hoofien, D., Shlamkovitch, N., Ben-Jacob, E., & Efrati, S. (2017). Improvement of memory impairments in poststroke patients by hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Neuropsychology, 31(6), 636–644. 

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