HBOT Client Guidelines
At The Wholeness Pod, your safety and well-being are paramount during hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Please follow these guidelines for a safe and beneficial experience.
​
​
1. Medical Screening: Before using the hyperbaric oxygen chamber at The Wholeness Pod, consult with your healthcare professional, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking medications.
2. Age and Health Restrictions: Be aware that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may have specific age and health restrictions. Follow our guidelines, especially if you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions, or are taking medications that could affect your session.
3. Clothing: Wear comfortable, 100% cotton clothing without metal elements to avoid any potential hazards during the session.
4. Pre-session Preparation: On the day of your hyperbaric oxygen therapy appointment, follow any specific dietary or hydration recommendations provided by The Wholeness Pod.
5. Understanding the Process: Familiarise yourself with the hyperbaric chamber's operation and how the session will proceed. Our staff will provide detailed instructions to ensure your comfort and safety.
6. Equalising Ear Pressure: During the session, you may need to equalise ear pressure, similar to what you do during air travel. Our staff will guide you through this process. *See additional guidelines on this below.
7. Communicate Discomfort: If you experience any discomfort or concerns during the session, please inform our operator immediately. They can make necessary adjustments or end the session if needed.
8. Session Duration: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions vary in duration. Follow the recommended time frame provided by The Wholeness Pod's staff for your specific needs.
9. Breathing: Breathe normally during the session and avoid holding your breath. The chamber's atmosphere will be adjusted to your benefit.
10. Relaxation: Try to relax and enjoy the experience. Many people find hyperbaric oxygen therapy to be a calming and rejuvenating experience.
11. Aftercare: After your session, take your time to acclimate to normal atmospheric pressure. Follow any post-session guidelines provided by The Wholeness Pod.
12. Frequency: Adhere to the recommended frequency of hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions as suggested by our staff for the best results.
​
13. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to the therapy. If you have any persistent discomfort or questions, consult with our trained staff or your healthcare professional.
​
* Equalising your ears during a hyperbaric oxygen therapy session is essential to prevent discomfort or potential ear barotrauma. Here are some tips to help you equalise your ears effectively:
1. Start Early: Begin equalising your ears as soon as you feel pressure changes inside the hyperbaric chamber. Don't wait until you experience discomfort.
2. Swallow: Swallowing helps open the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. This can help equalise pressure. Sip water if it helps trigger swallowing.
3. Yawning: Yawning can also help equalise ear pressure. Try to yawn gently and without force.
4. Valsalva Maneuver: Pinch your nostrils closed and gently blow through your nose while keeping your mouth closed. This action can help equalise pressure by opening the Eustachian tubes. Do it gently to avoid any potential damage to your ears.
5. Toynbee Maneuver: Pinch your nostrils closed and swallow at the same time. This maneuver helps by combining the act of swallowing with nose-pinching.
6. Frenzel Maneuver: If you're having difficulty, this advanced technique involves pinching your nostrils closed and making a "K" or "G" sound while attempting to swallow. This can help equalise pressure more effectively.
7. Stay Relaxed: It's essential to remain calm and relaxed while equalising. Tensing up can make it more challenging.
8. Practice at Home: If you're new to equalising in a hyperbaric chamber, practice these techniques at home or during scuba diving sessions to become more proficient.
9. Seek Assistance: If you're unable to equalise your ears or experience discomfort, inform the chamber operator immediately. They can make adjustments to the pressure or provide guidance.
​
Remember that equalising your ears is crucial for your comfort and safety during hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Practice these techniques and communicate with the chamber staff to ensure a smooth and comfortable session.
​
*All new clients must complete our introductory sessions prior to starting any treatments with us.