Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Combined with Polarized Light Therapy on Neuropathic Foot Ulcer

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Peripheral neuritis and its related significant complication, neuropathic foot ulcers, often lead to functional impairment and increased risk of lower-limb amputation. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) and photobiomodulation therapy in the form of polarized light therapy (PLT) have been independently reported to improve peripheral neuritis and enhance wound healing by improving tissue oxygenation and promoting cellular regeneration. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the combined effect of HBO followed by PLT on neuropathic foot ulcer healing and peripheral neuropathy. DESIGN: Forty patients aged from 55 to 70 years old were randomized into two groups: an experimental group (HBO + PLT, n=20) and a control group receiving standard care (n=20). Outcome measures included ulcer volume, transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2), and Michigan Neuropathy Questionnaire (MNQ) scores, assessed at baseline, two weeks, and four weeks. RESULTS: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in all outcomes compared to controls. These findings support the combined use of HBO and PLT as an effective adjunctive therapy for neuropathic foot ulcers. CONCLUSION: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy followed by polarized light therapy significantly enhances TcPO2 and improves peripheral neuropathy outcomes.