Considered one of the best recovery options for a range of health conditions and athletic endeavours, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has gained popularity for its potential benefits for both athletes and patients. As the demand for this therapy grows, so does the variety of hyperbaric chambers available. Although you may have heard the term Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy before, most are unaware of how this therapy can be delivered. The two main types are hard-shell and soft-shell chambers, both offering different levels of treatment.
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In this blog, our wellbeing experts in Surbiton explore the key differences between soft-shell and hard-shell hyperbaric oxygen therapy and provide recommendations as to which type of chamber will offer the best form of treatment for your particular condition or usage. Our experts will cover everything from chamber structure, to pressure control and specific usage types.
As previously mentioned, there is still some confusion around the different types of HBOT available. Although many will be familiar with this popular treatment, most may have either seen one or the other when it comes to the chamber and assumed they were the typical option for treatment. Although type of chamber itself can vary in material and build, this fact also influences the level of treatment that can be obtained by each type of chamber.
Hard shell hyperbaric chambers are characterised by their rigid construction, typically made from materials such as metal or acrylic. This design ensures a durable and sturdy chamber capable of withstanding higher pressures. These pods are considered the high-end option for their high level of construction.
Soft shell hyperbaric chambers, on the other hand, have a flexible and inflatable structure. These chambers are typically made from materials like polyurethane, making them more portable and easier to set up, however compromising on the pressure that can be handled within the material.
One of the main areas of difference and concern for those looking to try this incredible treatment is the pressure control available by each chamber. Being able to control the pressure allows for different severities of conditions to be addressed during treatment. Studies from the National Institute of Health have shown that the higher the pressure allocated, the more impactful the treatment.
One of the notable advantages of hard shell chambers is their precise pressure control capabilities. This allows practitioners to provide an effective range of pressure levels during therapy sessions with a high degree of accuracy. 1.5 ATA pressure is considered the most effective pressure level for recovery and increased oxygen flow for patients and athletes, making it the preferred option for most people.
At our clinic in Surbiton, the pressure in our hard shell chamber defaults to the 1.5 ATA range. In some cases, upon client request, we can manually control the pressure increase until reaching the optimum 1.5 ATA, allowing for a more versatile and specialised treatment. With this form of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, you can ensure that you are receiving the highest accuracy and flexibility of care.
In comparison, soft shell chambers operate at lower pressures compared to their hard shell counterparts. Soft shell HBOT can only achieve a maximum pressure of 1.3 ATA, which is significantly lower than that of the hard shell (1.5 ATA).They are often used for mild hyperbaric therapy, where patients breathe oxygen at pressures slightly above atmospheric pressure, however there is no data to support the effectiveness of soft shell chambers. This makes them unlikely to provide the therapy needed to address most conditions.
Hard shell chambers are commonly found in clinical settings, and specialised hyperbaric oxygen therapy centres, such as 360 Degree Clinic in Surbiton. They provide a controlled environment suitable for a wide range of medical conditions, and their design facilitates the presence of trained professionals during treatments. They are also often used by amateur and professional athletes to aid recovery and ensure a more mobilised body for upcoming matches or sporting events.
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Soft shell chambers are popular and more suitable for home use and wellness centres. Their portability and ease of setup make them accessible to individuals seeking hyperbaric therapy outside of traditional clinical settings. However, it’s important to note that the lower pressure levels limit their suitability for many medical conditions.
The choice between soft and hard shell hyperbaric oxygen therapy depends on various factors, including the specific medical condition being treated and the preferences of practitioners or individuals seeking therapy.
For clinical and severe medical conditions requiring precise pressure control and monitoring, hard shell hyperbaric chambers are often recommended. These chambers are found in established wellbeing clinics where trained professionals can administer and oversee treatments. They offer a higher variable pressure level (1.5 ATA) than soft shell chambers, making them able to help support healing from a various and broad range of mild to severe health issues.
Soft shell hyperbaric chambers, on the other hand, claim to be suitable for milder conditions however there is little evidence to confirm this. As their maximum pressure (1.3 ATA) is much below that of the hard shell, they cannot compete in terms of effectiveness. Soft shell chambers are preferred in more casual settings, such as home treatment, as they offer convenience and portability, making them an attractive option for individuals seeking mild hyperbaric therapy in the comfort of their homes.
We recommend hard shell hyperbaric oxygen therapy for everyone as you can ensure a more effective and controlled level of pressure to suit your particular use. Whether you are treating a mild or severe medical condition, or are an athlete or sportsperson at any level, hard shell HBOT will ensure that you are receiving the most suitable treatment and recovery, enhancing performance and truly aiding the treatment for your condition.
In conclusion, the choice between soft shell and hard shell hyperbaric oxygen therapy depends on the specific needs of the individual and the nature of the medical condition. Consulting with a hyperbaric oxygen therapy provider is crucial to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, ensuring the safety and effectiveness for your unique case.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, whether in a soft or hard shell chamber, continues to show promise in various medical applications. As technology advances and research progresses, we can expect further developments in both types of chambers, providing more options for individuals seeking the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. For the time being, we recommend hard shell HBOT as it allows a more effective level of treatment, an increased option of pressure and more accurate pressure control.
Our experienced practitioners are dedicated to helping you achieve the care and recovery you desire with expert treatments using the latest technology. Each member of our team has a wealth of knowledge and experience in providing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy suited to your specific conditions or needs.
Book a consultation with our practitioners today to discuss your needs and have any questions you may have about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy answered in detail. You can also visit our HBOT deals page for discounted prices on your treatment.
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