Anoxic Brain Injury Treatment in Los Gatos: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Holistic Care

If you’re dealing with changes in memory, focus, balance, or motor skills after a serious health event such as cardiac arrest, stroke, choking, drowning, or trauma you’re not alone.

When the brain receives too little oxygen, it may be described as a hypoxic brain injury. When oxygen is fully interrupted, it’s often referred to as an anoxic brain injury (ABI).

At Fields Family Chiropractic in Los Gatos, California, Dr. Adam Fields provides supportive, personalized care for people navigating recovery. Depending on your needs and clinical findings, your plan may include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), laser therapy, and cranial and spinal chiropractic care, alongside lifestyle and rehabilitation support.

What Is Anoxic Brain Injury?

When the brain receives too little oxygen for a period of time, it is often described as a hypoxic brain injury. When oxygen supply is fully interrupted, it is known as an anoxic brain injury (ABI).

Because oxygen is essential for brain tissue, even short interruptions can affect function. Early evaluation and appropriate medical care are important, especially when symptoms are new, severe, or worsening.

What Causes Anoxic Brain Injury?

Common causes of anoxic brain injury include:

• Cardiac arrest (reduced blood flow and oxygen to the brain)
• Choking or drowning (blocked oxygen intake)
• Stroke (impaired blood flow to the brain)
• Severe trauma (injuries that disrupt oxygen delivery)
• Carbon monoxide poisoning (reduces oxygen available in the bloodstream)
• Drug overdose (may suppress breathing or circulation)
• Birth complications (oxygen deprivation during delivery)

Anoxic Brain Injury Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms can look different from person to person. Some people notice changes right away, while others develop symptoms over time.

Physical Symptoms

• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness or coma
• Muscle weakness or spasms
• Poor coordination and balance

Cognitive Symptoms

• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating or processing information
• Challenges with decision making or problem solving

Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms

• Mood swings or irritability
• Anxiety or depression
• Reduced impulse control

Neurological Symptoms

• Speech changes
• Vision or hearing changes
• Motor impairments or paralysis

If you have sudden neurological symptoms, severe headache, chest pain, trouble breathing, or rapid worsening, seek emergency medical care.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for Anoxic Brain Injury in Los Gatos

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This can increase oxygen availability in the body and may help support oxygen delivery to tissues. Some proposed benefits discussed in clinical literature include support for tissue repair processes and inflammation modulation. Individual results vary, and HBOT is typically considered as part of a broader care plan.

How HBOT may support recovery

HBOT is often discussed in relation to:

• Supporting oxygen delivery to areas with reduced circulation
• Supporting the body’s healing environment
• Supporting recovery related to fatigue, cognition, and overall function in some patients

Scientific evidence supporting HBOT

A study by Hadanny et al. (2015) evaluated HBOT in patients with chronic cognitive impairments following anoxic brain injury after cardiac arrest. The authors reported improvements and discussed HBOT as a potential way to support neuroplasticity in some patients.

Hadanny, A., Daphna-Tekoah, S., Bechor, Y., Meir, O., & Efrati, S. (2015). Hyperbaric Oxygen can induce neuroplasticity and improve the cognitive functions of patients suffering from anoxic brain damage. Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience, 33(4), 471 to 486.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7081098/

How many HBOT sessions are typically recommended?

The number of sessions depends on the severity of the injury, how long symptoms have been present, and overall health.

A common range discussed is 30 to 60 sessions, with each session lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. Dr. Fields will tailor recommendations to your needs and monitor your progress.

What results can you expect from HBOT?

Some people who undergo HBOT for anoxic brain injury report:

• Improved mental clarity and cognitive function
• Better motor skills and coordination
• Improved mood and emotional regulation
• Gradual improvements in quality of life

Results vary by person, and outcomes depend on many factors.

Additional treatment options for anoxic brain injury recovery

At Dr. Adam Fields’ clinic in Los Gatos, California, we may use a multidisciplinary approach to support recovery, which may include:

Laser therapy

Laser therapy, including low level laser therapy (LLLT) and photobiomodulation (PBM), uses light energy to support cellular activity and tissue repair.

Laser therapy may be discussed for:

• Supporting cellular function through mitochondrial activity
• Supporting inflammation modulation
• Supporting recovery processes for tissue repair

Chiropractic care and posture focused rehabilitation

Chiropractic care can support nervous system function through spinal mechanics, posture, and neuromuscular re-education. Dr. Fields uses corrective chiropractic techniques such as CBP and the Pettibon System with a rehab focused approach.

Endonasal cranial adjusting

Dr. Fields may use hands on techniques and endonasal balloons to support cranial mobility as part of a broader rehabilitative plan, depending on your presentation and clinical findings.

FAQ

Can HBOT reverse anoxic brain damage?

HBOT is not guaranteed to reverse brain damage. Some patients report improvements in specific symptoms and function, and research continues to explore where HBOT may be helpful. Your provider can help you understand whether HBOT is appropriate for your case.

Is HBOT safe?

HBOT is generally considered safe when properly supervised, but it may not be appropriate for everyone. A clinical evaluation is important to discuss risks, benefits, and medical history.

When should I seek care?

If you have new or worsening neurological symptoms, seek urgent medical care. For ongoing symptoms after a known event, scheduling an evaluation can help clarify options and next steps.

Ready to take the first step?

At Dr. Adam Fields’ Los Gatos office, we support patients working to restore cognitive and physical function after an anoxic brain injury. Care plans may include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), laser therapy, and chiropractic care based on your needs.

Call now to book your consultation:
(408) 274 2244
Visit us: 16615 Lark Avenue Ste 201, Los Gatos, CA 95032
Schedule online: https://fieldsfamilychiro.janeapp.com/