How long is a hyperbaric oxygen therapy session?

Session length varies based on the type of HBOT and the condition being treated. Medical-grade HBOT sessions at hospital-based or accredited facilities typically last 90 to 120 minutes total. This includes a 10 to 15 minute compression phase where the chamber gradually reaches the target pressure of 2.0 to 3.0 ATA, a 60 to 90 minute treatment phase at full pressure during which you breathe 100% oxygen, and a 10 to 15 minute decompression phase where the chamber slowly returns to normal pressure. Some protocols include scheduled air breaks during the treatment phase — typically 5 minutes of breathing regular air every 20 to 30 minutes — to reduce the risk of oxygen toxicity during longer sessions. A standard treatment course for wound healing is 20 to 40 sessions, usually scheduled 5 days per week. Wellness mild hyperbaric therapy sessions at spa-type centers are generally shorter, running 60 to 90 minutes at 1.3 to 1.5 ATA pressure. Compression and decompression phases are quicker at these lower pressures, and air breaks are not typically required. You can usually read, sleep, use your phone, or watch content during the session. Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for check-in and equipment setup.

Reviewed by Chad Waldman, Analytical Chemist · Last updated May 2026

About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

HBOT delivers 100% oxygen at 1.