Using hyperbaric oxygen therapy to improve breathing after spinal cord injuries

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy mitigates respiratoryneuromuscular pathology after spinal cord injury

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-10683178

This study is looking at how breathing pressurized oxygen in short sessions might help people recover their breathing after a spinal cord injury, making it easier for them to breathe and reducing related problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10683178 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) can help patients recover respiratory function after a spinal cord injury. The therapy involves short sessions of breathing pressurized oxygen, which may reduce damage to the diaphragm and spinal cord. By targeting oxidative stress, the research aims to improve muscle and nerve recovery in the weeks following an injury. Patients may experience enhanced respiratory function and reduced complications related to breathing.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have recently suffered a cervical spinal cord injury.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic spinal cord injuries or those who do not have respiratory complications may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve respiratory recovery and quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with hyperbaric oxygen therapy in reducing oxidative stress and improving recovery in various conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.