Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an incurable disease of the central nervous system. “Sclerosis” refers to scarring of the white matter of the brain and spinal cord. MS usually strikes young adults and in time can render a person unable to write, speak, and walk. Some 400,000 Americans live with MS, and 200 more are diagnosed every week. About 80% of people with MS experience cycles of remission and relapse.

Causes of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

In multiple sclerosis the body’s own immune system attacks the lines of communication between nerve cells. But scientists don’t know the root cause of this mechanism. Research today focuses on infections, genetics, and environmental risks.

Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Like other MS treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) aims to relieve symptoms and to prevent attacks and disabilities. Many clinicians use HBOT off-label to manage the side effects of drugs prescribed for MS. A growing community of practitioners claims hyperbaric oxygen also reduces pain, modulates the immune system, increases energy, alleviates sleep dysfunction, and reduces cognitive impairment in patients with MS. Evidence in the medical literature does not yet support these claims.

HyperbaricLink Evidence Index for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

PubMed.gov 101 citations

HBOEvidence.com 18 appraisals

ClinicalTrials.gov 0 trials

The HyperbaricLink Evidence Index is our at-a-glance summary of the clinical evidence on HBOT for the treatment of specific diseases and conditions. Scoring is based solely on our reading and interpretation of the medical literature.

• Disproved - Strong evidence against using HBOT.
• None - Unfavorable results or no published evidence.
• Scant - Early or mixed results with lingering questions.
• Promising - Repeatedly favorable results urging further study.
• Compelling - Strong body of evidence meriting approval.
• Approved - HBOT indicated and widely reimbursed.

Follow the links to our primary sources to read the papers and analyses that have shaped our views. PubMed.gov lists most all scientific papers published in reputable medical journals. HBOEvidence.com critically appraises key studies in the hyperbaric medical literature. ClinicalTrials.gov lists human clinical trials currently enrolling, in progress, and recently completed.

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