Oxygen - of all the things we put in our bodies, it is by far the most important. If it weren't for oxygen, we'd cease to exist. It's definitely a good thing, then, that we can find oxygen all around us. Oxygen fuels our cells and gives our bodies the basic building blocks we need to survive. It helps us heal, and when we're stressed, taking a few deep breaths can help us calm down. But did you know the oxygen you're breathing right now is only about 21% pure?
That begs the question: What if we could breathe air that has 100% pure oxygen? As it turns out, Better Life Carolinas provides exactly that with our hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). And while the name sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, the technology and benefits are real.
A wise person once said that oxygen under pressure equates to pure health. In some ways, that explains hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a nutshell. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) or hyperbaric chamber therapy is a revolutionary treatment where a patient relaxes in a comfortable chamber filled with 100% pure oxygen.
HBOT was initially used early in the 1900s and was later used in the U.S. to treat decompression sickness, which affects scuba divers. Today, hyperbaric chamber therapy is used by people from all walks of life, from businesspeople and athletes to blue-collar workers and stay-at-home moms.
During HBOT, the air pressure in the hyperbaric chamber is ramped up two or three times higher than typical air pressure. This increased pressure allows your body and lungs to absorb and gather higher amounts of pure oxygen - much more than you would be able to inhale, even if you were breathing pure oxygen.
If you're looking for an effective, efficient alternative to invasive procedures or heavy pharmaceutical medications, using a hyperbaric chamber in Sullivan's Island, SC is worth considering. Over the last few years, HBOT has exploded in popularity. More and more people are choosing to use hyperbaric chambers for certain conditions and ailments because they don't require surgery and have no serious side effects.
During hyperbaric therapy treatment, air pressure in the chamber is ramped up so that it is many times higher than ambient air. This increased pressure compresses the breathable oxygen inside the hyperbaric chamber, which you breathe into your body by way of your lungs and skin. The air is then circulated throughout your body via your own bloodstream.
When this pure oxygen is distributed in your body, it saturates your organs, tissues, blood, and spinal cord fluid. It even settles into areas of your body where circulation may be poor or blocked. Like powerful jumper cables, this potent oxygen jump-starts your body's cellular regeneration processes, significantly decreasing harmful inflammation.
This increase in pure oxygen and decrease in inflammation is used to treat many different types of conditions and illnesses, including:
When it comes to common uses for hyperbaric chambers, treatment for sports-related injuries is near the top of the list. Trusted by athletes of all persuasions across multiple sports, hyperbaric chamber therapy has helped countless men and women recover from common issues like fractures, sprains, and compartment syndrome. In fact, studies show that hyperbaric therapy for athletes may work just as effectively as traditional therapy when used as part of a recovery program to achieve the highest healing potential.
That's because competition, training, and recovery go hand in hand. To help with the rigors of high-level sports, HBOT oxygenates muscles, boosts immune systems, and speeds up recovery time for injuries. HBOT cuts down on recovery time by boosting your body's self-healing processes. That, in turn, promotes cell regeneration, which helps encourage tissues and muscles to mend organically, lessening scarring.
When a person has a stroke, blood flow to their brain is disrupted, most often by a major artery blockage. This causes a lack of blood flow, which manifests very quickly, and results in dead brain tissue or hypoxia. When untreated, the blocked artery causes a litany of damage which usually gets worse over time.
While it's impossible to say how much salvageable tissue is lost in the time after a stroke, hyperbaric chamber therapy may help boost cell reproduction and provide oxygen to tissue that died due to lack of blood flow. The non-functioning cells around the damaged tissue area cause much of a person's post-stroke issues. If HBOT can help bring life back to dead cells, the stroke victim could regain lost functionality.
Over the years, many studies have shown promising results when patients use hyperbaric chambers for stroke recovery. In fact, a study conducted in 2013 by Tel Aviv University's Dr. Shai Efrati showed without a doubt that high oxygen levels can awaken dormant neurons. After a two-month period of HBOT for two hours a day, five times a week, brain imaging showed a significant increase in neuronal activity in patients compared to periods of non-treatment.
Patients in this study reported better sensation, less paralysis, and more ability to speak.
Hyperbaric chamber therapy has been used for years by skincare clinicians to supplement common procedures. The results are often stunning and have been shown to help patients with the following:
But how does a hyperbaric chamber in Sullivan's Island, SC kick-start skin rejuvenation? When oxygen levels in your body drop as you age, your body's healing ability slowly declines, resulting in less tissue function, damaged tissue, cracked skin, slow-healing wounds, and wrinkles.
The pressurized oxygen used in HBOT sessions can reach tissue at the cellular level to improve stem-cell growth, immune system defenses, and circulation while reducing inflammation. This process can have a powerful detoxification effect on your body. When toxins are removed, skin blemishes and discolorations are often removed, too, leaving your skin healthy and rejuvenated.
They say that without pain, there is no gain, and that's typically true with plastic surgery and other cosmetic procedures. However, studies show that HBOT can help alleviate pain and boost recovery after plastic surgeries.
With normal levels of oxygen in the body, plastic surgery healing times can be lengthy and painful. Because hyperbaric chamber treatments expose your body to pure oxygen, recovery time is often reduced, and the healing process is accelerated - by as much as 75% in some instances.
The benefits of hyperbaric chamber therapy, when used for plastic surgery recovery, are numerous and include:
A few plastic surgery procedures that HBOT can help with include facelifts, liposuction, mommy makeovers, breast augmentations, and even rhinoplasties.
It's hard to fathom how much pain and PTSD a person goes through when they suffer from a traumatic brain injury. Serious head injuries don't just affect the recipient of the injury - they impact the patient's family, friends, and co-workers. Being able to treat people with serious concussions, TBIs, and other life-changing conditions like strokes is one of the main reasons we do what we do at Better Life Carolinas.
Mild TBIs usually require emergency care, medication, and extensive rest. But severe brain injuries require comprehensive medical interventions and post-care initiatives like speech therapy and physical therapy. The good news is that using a hyperbaric chamber in Sullivan's Island, SC as part of a comprehensive medical strategy may provide natural brain healing in TBI patients.
Hyperbaric chamber treatment's primary use in these cases is to hyper-oxygenate tissues, which helps dissolve oxygen in the plasma. This action triggers several healing processes without overwhelming the patient's antioxidant system. The working mechanism of oxygen under pressure can help improve cerebral blood flow through micro-vessels and target injured areas in order to decrease inflammation.
This promising anti-inflammatory effect is the primary advantage of HBOT for traumatic brain injury patients and clears the way for natural, non-invasive healing.
Hyperbaric chamber therapy has also been documented to help TBI sufferers in many other ways, including:
As it turns out, using a hyperbaric chamber in Sullivan's Island, SC may have benefits in the bedroom, too. Studies show that men suffering from ED may now have an additional treatment option to reclaim their sex lives. The International Journal of Impotence Research published a study in 2018 to determine if HBOT was a viable, non-surgical treatment for erectile dysfunction.
The results were very positive and showed that erectile function improved by as much as 88% in patients. Subsequent MRI scans analyzing blood flow of the penis also showed dramatic improvement. The study concluded that, even after years of ED, men could experience benefits from using hyperbaric chambers in lieu of risky surgeries and ineffective ED meds.
The documented improvements were due to more angiogenesis or growth of blood vessels in the penis. When new blood vessels grow in the penis, they can carry more blood to the organ, which helps achieve more frequent, stronger erections.
Though hyperbaric chambers are getting more popular with everyone from athletes to office workers, some folks are still out of the loop. If you're interested in learning more about this exciting, non-invasive, natural treatment, we encourage you to contact Better Life Carolinas today. Until we hear from you, here are answers to some of the most common questions we get regarding hyperbaric chamber therapy.
AWhen your session begins, oxygen will immediately circulate throughout the chamber, and pressure will gradually increase. At this point, most patients start feeling a fullness sensation in their ears, like they're ascending or descending in a plane. This feeling only lasts for 10-15 minutes. An experienced Better Life Carolinas hyperbaric technician will guide you on how to relieve any ear pressure, if necessary. Once the optimal pressure is reached, all you have to do is relax and breathe normally. As the session ends, your hyperbaric technician will gradually lower chamber pressure, which lasts about 10 minutes. During this stage, you may experience a light popping sensation in your ears. Once pressure is back to normal, you can exit the chamber and go about your day.
AIn general, you don't have to worry about serious side effects from HBOT. That's because it's an all-natural treatment - there are no incisions or addictive medications involved. However, some patients experience mild ear drum irritation. During your session, a Better Life Carolinas hyperbaric chamber expert will be by your side to help prevent this from happening.
AWithout a proper evaluation of your unique needs, it's hard to say with certainty. At Better Life Carolinas, we know that every patient is different. As such, every recommended therapy will be different, including the number of hyperbaric therapy sessions you need. Generally speaking, patients usually require 30 to 40 sessions. HBOT has a cumulative effect on your body and, as such, provides the best results with regularly occurring sessions.
AIf you have a form of air-trapping emphysema like COPD or have an untreated pneumothorax, HBOT isn't for you. At Better Life Carolinas, every one of our patients undergoes a full evaluation to ensure that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is safe for you and your body.
If you're looking for a hyperbaric chamber in Sullivan's Island, SC look no further than Better Life Carolinas. Whether you're a professional athlete looking to maximize recovery time or need a natural way to look and feel younger, our experts are here to help. Unlike some clinics that rely on major invasive procedures and addictive medications, our team focuses on natural, holistic ways to heal your body. If you're ready to optimize your health and reclaim your youth, contact us today to learn more about HBOT and our other natural therapies.
South Carolina has no shortage of beautiful towns worth visiting, but this one is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Dolphins breach the crystal-clear waters as golf carts whisk past centuries-old live oaks. Picture a place where flip-flops meet fine dining, historic bunkers have been transformed into chic libraries, and every sunset feels like a private show.This slice of paradise isn't just another beach town – it...
South Carolina has no shortage of beautiful towns worth visiting, but this one is one of the state's best-kept secrets. Dolphins breach the crystal-clear waters as golf carts whisk past centuries-old live oaks. Picture a place where flip-flops meet fine dining, historic bunkers have been transformed into chic libraries, and every sunset feels like a private show.
This slice of paradise isn't just another beach town – it's where Southern charm and coastal luxury combine, creating an enclave that would make even California's elite raise their eyebrows in appreciation. These are just some of the awesome things a traveler can experience in South Carolina, and this exclusive island town offers all of them and more.
In South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills, there are no hotel towers blocking ocean views, no rowdy tourist crowds – just a few lucky residents who've discovered what might be the East Coast's best-kept secret. Welcome to Sullivan's Island, South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills, where multimillion-dollar homes peek through maritime forests and the Atlantic whispers tales of pirates and poets.
Thanks to the ambiance of Edisto Beach, South Carolina, you can experience a Hawaiian vibe without ever leaving the continental US.
Sullivan's Island won't be on the list of the most affordable islands to retire to in the US, but it has a depth of pedigree behind its opulence. Step onto Station 18 1/2, where waves lap against pristine shores and resident artists capture the morning light.
The same beaches that once inspired Edgar Allan Poe now showcase nature's daily performance – from pelicans diving for breakfast to kitesurfers dancing with the wind. Modern mansions hide behind century-old palms while longtime residents cruise to local haunts in golf carts, embodying the island's perfect blend of luxury and laid-back coastal living.
Sullivan's Island's beaches aren't just comparable to Florida's—some would contend they are better. While Florida may have more sunshine, Sullivan's Island is more secluded, allowing visitors to truly experience the coastline uniquely.
It's not a place where thousands of people show up on the beach, but it's ideal for those who want to enjoy the coastline in a more private setting or a quieter environment.
When travelers think of Beverly Hills, they think of fancy buildings and breathtaking views. Sullivan's Island has both, and it's one of the most exclusive zip codes in South Carolina. Not only is it exclusive, but also quite expensive.
Sullivan's Island remains one of the most expensive places in South Carolina, showing how similar it is to California's most opulent neighborhood.
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This particular historical site is one of the many good reasons to visit South Carolina. Fort Moultrie is a testament to American resilience, where palmetto logs once absorbed British cannonballs like sponges.
Today, visitors walk the same grounds where Colonel William Moultrie's troops secured a pivotal victory in 1776, helping birth a nation. The fort, transformed over three centuries of coastal defense, offers an extraordinary glimpse into military history, with each chamber and cannon telling tales of courage under fire.
Sullivan's Island is another one of the least crowded spots in South Carolina worth visiting, and its culinary lineage is a good reason. Along Middle Street, South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills reveals its tastiest secrets.
Local chefs transform fresh-caught seafood into culinary masterpieces, while historic buildings house restaurants where reservations are as precious as beachfront property. The island's dining scene perfectly balances upscale offerings and casual coastal fare, where flip-flops are always welcome.
While there's a case for visiting Sullivan's Island at any time of the year, the best time for most travelers is in spring or summer. In spring, Sullivan's Island showcases its breathtaking flora and fauna, and its temperatures are ideal for exploring all over the island.
Summer offers the perfect setup for beach activities; the sun is ideal for a picnic on the beach or one of the island's meadows. Winter and fall are the low-season for the island, so visitors are not likely to see a lot of others in the area. They still offer some spectacular sights for dedicated travelers.
Edgar Allan Poe's spirit lives on in a former military bunker turned library. Streets named Raven and Gold Bug commemorate the famous author's time stationed at Fort Moultrie, while modern authors continue finding inspiration along these shores.
South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills proves that cultural richness and coastal luxury aren't mutually exclusive.
Some might call Sullivan's Island South Carolina's version of Beverly Hills, but that comparison barely scratches the surface. There's more to this gorgeous spot than the pristine coastline, the fancy houses, or the historical significance.
It's one of the places in South Carolina that feels like home, no matter how long you visit. It's a place where luxury doesn't mean pretense, history lives in every grain of sand, and the simple pleasure of a sunrise still outshines any material wealth.
Share The ArticleLast Updated 2 days agoSometimes, small towns leave a lasting mark bigger and better than the world's most sought-after destinations.Greeted with “how ya doin‘?” instead of “keep it movin” where you feel like just another face in the crowd, the South is teeming with hidden gems and quaint getaways that will have you coming back again and again.For example, when I visit Texas on occasion, I often find myself seeking out the small towns of Grapevine, G...
Share The Article
Last Updated 2 days ago
Sometimes, small towns leave a lasting mark bigger and better than the world's most sought-after destinations.
Greeted with “how ya doin‘?” instead of “keep it movin” where you feel like just another face in the crowd, the South is teeming with hidden gems and quaint getaways that will have you coming back again and again.
For example, when I visit Texas on occasion, I often find myself seeking out the small towns of Grapevine, Gruene, and Socorro, depending on where I am in the state, but certainly not Dallas or Austin.
Same goes for any state, but in this case, you may want to skip out on the tourist crowds of ever-so-trendy Charleston in favor of an idyllic, pint-sized island just 20 minutes away.
Practically a stone's throw from one of the South's most popular cities to indulge in rich history, epic eats, and timeless charm is Sullivan's Island, offering many of the same delights without hordes of visitors and overpriced menus.
This 3.5-mile-long barrier island is nestled along the Atlantic between numerous neighboring islands and, yes, Charleston.
Typically, you might hear of most vacationers making their way to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's renowned coastal vacation spot lined with beachside resorts and a buzzing boardwalk, but Sullivan's Island has gotta be the state's best-kept secret.
Those seeking a tranquil beach getaway should look no further than Sullivan's Island, boasting a very walkable rustic downtown easy to peruse local shops, galleries, and bar-hop if you please.
While you may not see restaurants run by acclaimed chefs featured by the Food Network, among others, as you will in Charleston, you will discover homey southern comfort foods intermixed with “catch of the days” straight from the source.
Better yet, you won't have to spend a fraction of your paycheck on a cup of coffee since there's no Starbucks, a small example portraying the island's far less touristy vibes without the eyesores of chain restaurants ruining the townscape's character.
Originally named O'Sullivan Island after early settler Captain Florence O'Sullivan, the “O” has since been dropped, but many historic sites remain.
Having played a significant factor through multiple wars, including ground zero for the Battle of Sullivan's Island in 1776, tourists can visit preserved structures like Fort Moultrie, holding intriguing exhibits and sweeping views of the surrounding scenery.
Fort Moultrie also overlooks Fort Sumter, another significant site, but you'll need to detour back to Charleston to be able to reach the ladder via ferry.
While it may be tempting to grab a bite to eat in one of the country's most popular foodie cities, Sullivan's Island's food scene is nothing to sleep on, with exceptional seafood and mouthwatering barbecue that will have you asking for extra napkins.
Southern Living hyped up a few different spots, depending on your palate. If you're up to slurping down oysters, check out The Longboard's ‘Happy Hour'.
If you're the type to nibble every last bit of ribs, then Home Team BBQ is just for you. But, if it were me, I'd be feasting on a burger at Poe's Tavern, an establishment dedicated to famed poet Edgar Allan Poe, who was stationed on Sullivan's Island as a private in the Army in the 1800s.
Who woulda thunk it?
As delightful as Sullivan's Island's main strip and as fascinating and photo-worthy as the numerous historic sites may be, at its core, this island is a year-round beach destination.
Sullivan's Island Beach holds an impressive 4.7 Google Rating, largely in part due to so much open space, unlike, say, Myrtle Beach.
Station 18 Beach is also a tranquil spot, boasting white sand and calm waves, just like Sullivan's Island Beach.
One of the most underrated aspects, once you leave Charleston proper, is the ability to island-hop the region.
Next to Sullivan's Island, just past a small canal inlet, is Isle Palms Beach, well worth a day trip to see what it's all about with equally scenic beaches.
But where should you stay? You won't find name-brand hotels here. Sullivan's Island is all about cozy rentals.
Lining the shores from Sullivan's Island through next-door Isle of Palms are rows of beachside cottages.
You can book in a variety of ways, such as Airbnb, Booking.com, or by searching local agencies.
There's still plenty of occupancy to cap off winter with a relaxing getaway. I scoured the interwebs for the perfect seaside cottage, and this one is my favorite.
Costing only $410 for a weeklong stay, it's located directly next to the aforementioned Fort Moultrie and with immediate beach access and walkable to Sullivan's Island's Nature Trail.
Plus, who would say no to free wine at check-in?!
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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