Short bursts of oxygen-depleted air may offer a promising solution for nerve pain. During this treatment, individuals alternate between breathing normal air and oxygen-depleted air for approximately 30 minutes, a process that has shown the ability to promote nerve regrowth and repair in animal studies. The therapy has also demonstrated significant improvements in arm strength for patients with spinal cord injuries, with an increase of up to 80% after just one session. Nerve damage, known as “peripheral” nerve damage, affects nerves beyond the brain and spinal cord and is commonly caused by injury, nerve entrapment, or diabetes. This condition can lead to symptoms such as pain, weakness, and numbness. Current treatments range from painkillers to surgical measures, including nerve transplantation. However, these treatments often yield suboptimal results, with less than 50% of patients regaining full nerve function and one in three experiencing no improvement.
The University of Alberta in Canada conducted a study published in the journal Experimental Neurology where seven patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries were given the therapy or a placebo. The treatment involved alternating cycles of breathing normal air for 60 seconds and air with half normal oxygen levels for 60 seconds over a period of 30 minutes. The results showed significant improvements in strength and elbow movement for patients receiving the therapy, while there were no changes observed in the placebo group. Previous research from the University of Saskatchewan also demonstrated the therapy’s ability to promote nerve healing in rats by up to 28mm away from the injury site. After ten weeks, movement also improved, suggesting that the treatment has a positive impact on nerve regeneration.
The exact mechanisms behind this therapy are not yet fully understood, but researchers speculate that the repetitive changes in blood oxygen levels play a critical role. These changes may trigger the release of growth factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which promote the growth of new nerve cells. The therapy, known as acute intermittent hypoxia, is now being tested on patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, one of the most common peripheral nerve injuries affecting the median nerve in the wrist. This condition is often caused by repetitive hand movements, such as typing. The upcoming trial will involve 80 patients who will undergo alternate cycles of breathing normal air and air with half normal oxygen levels for 90 seconds over a 30-minute period.
This research holds significant potential for a wide range of patients suffering from nerve pain, muscle weakness, and poor function. Additionally, other methods, such as electrical stimulation, are also being explored to aid in nerve regeneration. A trial at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Alberta is currently testing electrical stimulation as a means to trigger the release of nerve growth factors, accelerating the recovery process for peripheral nerve injuries in the hand. Patients scheduled for surgery will be electrically stimulated at the site of the injury for an hour prior to their operation.
In terms of gut health, a study conducted by Ohio State University found that adding tomatoes to the diets of pigs shifted the balance of bacteria in their gut, resulting in a decrease in “bad” bacteria and an increase in “good” bacteria after just two weeks. The reason behind this effect is still unclear.
As for health advice from artificial intelligence bot ChatGPT, one individual asked what is best for a bad back. The AI’s response included suggestions to avoid activities that worsen pain, apply heat or ice to the affected area, engage in low-impact exercises such as walking and swimming, and utilize over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. However, an expert raises concerns about potential side effects and interactions with other medications, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical attention if the pain persists.
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