mHBOT vs HBOT: Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy vs Medical-Grade HBOT
If you've researched hyperbaric oxygen therapy in Denver, you've probably seen two terms used almost interchangeably: mHBOT and HBOT. They're related — but they're not the same thing. Here's a plain-English guide to the differences and which one fits your goals.
The quick answer
- mHBOT (mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy) uses lower pressure — typically 1.3 ATA — in a soft-shell chamber. It's used for wellness, recovery, cognitive support and athletic performance.
- Medical HBOT uses higher pressure — 2.0 ATA or above — in a hard-shell chamber. It's prescribed in hospital settings for FDA-approved indications like decompression sickness, severe non-healing wounds, carbon monoxide poisoning and radiation tissue damage.
Pressure: 1.3 ATA vs 2.0+ ATA
ATA stands for "atmospheres absolute." Sea-level pressure is 1.0 ATA. At 1.3 ATA, your body absorbs significantly more dissolved oxygen into the bloodstream and plasma than it can at normal pressure — enough to support recovery, energy and cognitive function without the risks associated with higher-pressure exposure.
Medical HBOT pushes pressures to 2.0–3.0 ATA. That higher pressure is necessary for the specific medical indications it treats, but it also requires a hospital environment, a hard-shell chamber, and 100% medical oxygen under close clinical supervision.
Chamber type: soft-shell vs hard-shell
Soft-shell chambers are the standard for mHBOT — they're comfortable, quiet, and designed for the 1.3 ATA range. Hard-shell chambers are built from rigid steel or acrylic and are required for the higher pressures used in medical HBOT.
Which one is right for you?
If you have a serious medical condition that meets FDA-approved indications for hyperbaric oxygen, your physician will refer you to a hospital-based HBOT program. For everything else — recovery, inflammation support, focus, post-surgery healing, performance — mHBOT is the practical, accessible option, and it's what we offer at HBOT NOW.
mHBOT in Denver
HBOT NOW is located in Englewood, CO and serves clients across the greater Denver metro — Centennial, Littleton, Aurora, Parker, Highlands Ranch and beyond. Explore session options:
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between mHBOT and HBOT?
mHBOT (mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy) uses lower pressure (typically 1.3 ATA) in a soft-shell chamber and is used for general wellness, recovery and cognitive support. Medical-grade HBOT uses 2.0 ATA or higher in a hard-shell chamber and is prescribed for FDA-approved medical indications such as decompression sickness, severe wounds and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Is mHBOT safe?
Yes. Mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy at 1.3 ATA has an excellent safety profile and is widely used for wellness, athletic recovery and post-procedure support. Always speak with your physician if you have ear, sinus or lung conditions before starting any pressurized therapy.
Which type does HBOT NOW offer in Denver?
HBOT NOW in Englewood, CO offers mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mHBOT) sessions designed for wellness, recovery and performance. We serve clients across the greater Denver metro, including Centennial, Littleton, Aurora and Parker.
How many sessions will I need?
Most clients feel benefits after a series of sessions rather than a single visit. Many wellness protocols suggest 10 to 40 sessions depending on your goals — call (720) 308-2394 and we'll help you pick the right package.