Ozone therapy

Ozone therapy is a treatment method in which ozone gas (O₃) is injected into the body in a controlled manner to help improve pain and repair tissues by increasing oxygen supply, reducing inflammation and stimulating the immune system. This method is used as a complementary method in the treatment of musculoskeletal problems, arthritis and some other disorders, although scientific research on its effectiveness and long-term safety is still under investigation.

What is ozone injection?

Ozone therapy is a method in which ozone gas (O₃), that is, the third atomic oxygen, is produced in a controlled manner and then introduced into the body or different tissues in order to use its potential properties to improve health.

Ozone is made with special medical oxygen, and depending on the treatment method, it may be injected locally (such as into the muscle or under the skin), injected into the joint, or combined with the person's blood (autohaemotherapy).

The theoretical hypothesis behind this method is that ozone under the right dose and conditions can help to repair tissues and reduce pain by stimulating the immune system, increasing oxygenation and improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation and activating antioxidant mechanisms inside the body (source).

However, the use of ozone therapy is controversial. Some scientific articles and summaries emphasize that there is still insufficient evidence to prove the effectiveness and long-term safety of this treatment (source).

In recent decades, ozone therapy has been considered as one of the complementary methods in medicine. Comprehensive findings in 2024 show that the use of ozone in the treatment of many musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis, chronic pain, and joint inflammation has been able to have significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects (source).

How does ozone therapy work?

Ozone therapy, when done correctly and in a controlled dose, works by mechanisms that may help improve health in certain conditions. Ozone therapy works by introducing ozone gas (O₃) into the body or tissues and creating controlled chemical reactions.

These reactions lead to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid oxidation products (LOPs), which create a type of mild oxidative shock (source). This mild shock activates the body's defense system and causes the following effects:

• Stimulation of antioxidant system: activation of cellular defense pathways and reduction of oxidative stress.
• Improving blood circulation and oxygen supply: increasing capillary blood flow and better delivery of oxygen to tissues.
• Strengthening the immune system and disinfecting effect: Reducing the growth of bacteria, viruses and fungi.
• Inflammation reduction: regulating immune responses and reducing the activity of inflammatory pathways.

In short, ozone therapy can be effective in accelerating tissue repair and reducing pain and infection by naturally stimulating the body's defense mechanisms and improving oxygen circulation and reducing inflammation.

Types of ozone therapy methods

Ozone therapy can be performed in different ways, each of which is chosen depending on the treatment goal, the patient's condition and the injection site.

The main goal of all methods is to increase oxygen delivery to tissues, reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Some methods are local and others are systemic; Choosing the right method is determined by a specialist doctor.

local ozone therapy

In this method, ozone is injected directly into the site of injury or pain, such as into a joint, muscle, or soft tissue. This method is used to treat arthritis, lumbar disc pain, joint inflammation and local wounds. Its main advantage is the concentration of the therapeutic effect in the desired area and the risk of systemic complications is lower (source).

venous ozone therapy

In this method, ozone enters the patient's blood, the patient's blood is taken, combined with ozone and returned to the body. This method strengthens the immune system, increases antioxidants and improves oxygen flow throughout the body (source).

subcutaneous ozone therapy or subcutaneous injection

In this method, ozone is injected under the skin to affect fat tissues and skin. This method is usually used to rejuvenate the skin, treat chronic wounds and cellulite, and stimulates blood circulation and collagen production at the injection site (source).

gaseous or compressed ozone therapy

In this method, ozone gas enters the body directly, for example, through the rectum, vagina or ear, depending on the type of treatment. This method can be effective in treating internal infections, intestinal problems or local systemic inflammation (source).

Benefits of ozone injection

Ozone injection or ozone therapy has attracted the attention of doctors and patients in recent years due to its potential therapeutic and non-invasive effects. The main advantage of this treatment is reducing the need for painkillers or invasive surgeries and natural stimulation of the body's defense mechanisms.

• Reducing pain and inflammation: Ozone is effective in reducing joint and muscle pain by stimulating anti-inflammatory pathways and improving local blood circulation.
• Improving the healing process of wounds: Increasing oxygen supply and stimulation of cells accelerates the healing of chronic wounds.
• Strengthening the body's immune system: The activation of the immune system and the increase of antioxidants increase the body's resistance to infections.
• Non-invasiveness: It does not require surgery or cutting and is a suitable method for local or systemic treatment.
• Improve blood circulation and oxygen supply: Help increase blood flow and deliver more oxygen to tissues, especially damaged tissues.

possible side effects of ozone injection

Although ozone therapy is known as a non-invasive and low-risk method, like any other treatment method, it may have side effects. In the following, we have reviewed some of the most important side effects of ozone injection.

• Slight pain or swelling at the injection site: The most common complication that usually resolves on its own.
• Temporary dizziness or nausea: may occur in some patients after intravenous injection.
• Rare sensitivity or allergic reaction: In very rare cases, the skin or tissue may show sensitivity to ozone.
• Exacerbation of existing problems: Ozone therapy may be used with caution in patients with severe heart disease, blood disorders, or respiratory problems.

Ozone is used to treat what complications?

Ozone therapy is used as a complementary treatment for a variety of medical problems and chronic conditions. This method can be useful by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation and increasing oxygen supply to tissues, in relieving pain, improving joint function and strengthening the healing process of wounds.

joint and muscle pains

Local or intra-articular ozone therapy can be effective for pain caused by arthritis, back pain and lumbar disc pain. Studies show that ozone injection reduces pain and mobility limitations of patients by reducing inflammation and improving local blood circulation (source).

Chronic wounds and infections

Using ozone plays an effective role in healing diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers and burns. Ozone accelerates wound healing by increasing oxygen supply and stimulating repair cells (source).

Skin and beauty problems

Subcutaneous or local ozone injection can be used to rejuvenate the skin, reduce wrinkles and treat cellulite. This method stimulates collagen production and improves blood flow in the skin (source).

Strengthening the immune system and chronic diseases

Venous or systemic ozone therapy can strengthen the body's immune system and be useful in chronic diseases such as viral and inflammatory infections. This method activates antioxidants and reduces oxidative stress in the body. style="font-weight: 400;">).

Ozone injection for lumbar disc

Ozone injection for lumbar disc treatment is one of the non-surgical and minimally invasive methods used to reduce pain and improve performance in patients with disc herniation or intervertebral disc protrusion.

In this method, ozone is injected in a controlled manner to the area around the disc to reduce inflammation, reduce pressure on the nerve roots and stimulate the disc tissue repair process.

Clinical studies have shown that this method can help reduce pain, improve movement and reduce the need for anti-inflammatory drugs, without the need for open surgery and with minimal short-term complications.

Ozone injection for knee

Ozone therapy gas injection into the knee joint has been studied as a non-surgical treatment option for knee osteoarthritis (or wear and tear and inflammation of the knee joint); Several studies have reported that this method can reduce pain, improve knee function, and improve patients' quality of life.

For example, in one clinical trial, patients who received intra-articular ozone injections had a significant reduction in pain and improved function—after 3 to 6 months—compared to steroid injections (source).

Also, another study showed that after 4 sessions of weekly ozone injections, the amount of pain was significantly reduced and the need for painkillers was reduced in many patients (source).

How effective is ozone therapy?

The effectiveness of ozone therapy varies depending on the type of disease, the injection method, and the patient's condition, but clinical studies show that this method can have a significant effect on reducing pain, improving joint function, and accelerating tissue repair.

For example, in patients with lumbar disc or knee arthritis, ozone injection has reduced pain and increased mobility for several months after treatment.

However, the available evidence is usually short-term, and longer-term studies and larger trials are necessary to fully confirm its efficacy and safety.

Therefore, ozone therapy is proposed as a complementary and minimally invasive method that can be an alternative or complementary option for traditional treatments, especially in situations where surgery or drug therapy is not suitable.

Necessary preparations before ozone injection

Ozone therapy is a minimally invasive method, but to achieve the best results and reduce the risk of complications, it is necessary to follow the tips before the treatment.

Proper preparation includes checking the health status, consulting with a specialist doctor and following the pre-injection recommendations. These measures help ensure safety, effectiveness of treatment and reduction of short-term complications.

• Consultation with a specialist doctor: review of medical records, chronic diseases and medications to ensure the safety of treatment.
• Stopping or adjusting some medications: If you are taking anticoagulants or special medications, your doctor may recommend changing the dose or temporarily stopping them.
• Perform basic tests: such as blood tests or checking the status of the immune system, to detect any underlying problems that could increase the risk of the injection.
• Not consuming heavy food before injection and observing hydration: In some intravenous or systemic procedures, it is recommended to have a light stomach and drink enough water.
• Information about allergies and previous complications: It is necessary to inform the doctor about any type of allergy or complication experience in previous injections, to prevent possible problems.

Ozone injection steps

Ozone injection is a controlled treatment method that is performed by a specialist doctor using standard equipment.

Following the correct injection steps is necessary to ensure safety, reduce complications and achieve desired results. The injection procedures include initial patient assessment, injection site preparation, ozone injection, and post-treatment care.

Medical evaluation and consultation

At this stage, the doctor examines the patient's condition, evaluates the medical history, medications and chronic diseases. The purpose of this stage is to ensure the safety of the treatment and to choose the most appropriate ozone therapy method.

Injection site preparation

The doctor disinfects the injection site and uses local anesthesia if needed. This step is necessary to reduce pain and prevent infection. The equipment includes syringes, ozone generator and sterile kits.

Ozone injection

According to the type of treatment, ozone enters the body locally, intra-articularly, subcutaneously or intravenously. The dose and volume of ozone is adjusted by the doctor according to the patient's needs and the type of complication. This step usually takes a few minutes and should be done under the strict control of the doctor.

Care after injection

After the injection, the patient may experience some mild pain or local swelling, which usually resolves within a few hours. It is recommended to limit heavy activities for a few days and report any unusual symptoms to the doctor. It is also important to drink enough water and follow the doctor's instructions at this stage.

Care after ozone injection

Care after ozone injection plays an important role in increasing the effectiveness of treatment and reducing the risk of complications. After ozone therapy, patients may experience mild pain or short-term swelling at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few hours to a day.

It is recommended that heavy activities and strenuous sports be limited for a few days and that the patient consumes enough fluids to improve the repair process and oxygen supply to the tissues.

Also, any unusual or severe symptoms such as severe pain, fever or local tenderness should be reported to the doctor immediately. Strictly following the doctor's instructions is the key to achieving the desired results and reducing possible risks after the injection.

Who are suitable candidates for ozone therapy?

Ozone therapy is a good option for people who are looking for non-surgical and minimally invasive methods to reduce pain, inflammation or improve tissue repair process.

This method is usually used for patients with knee arthritis, lumbar disc, chronic muscle pain, slow-healing wounds or skin problems.

Also, people who cannot perform surgery for medical or personal reasons, or who wish to use less painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, can benefit from ozone therapy.

However, the final choice and diagnosis of the appropriateness of this treatment should be made by a specialist doctor after examining the medical records, medications and general condition of the patient.

Which people should not do ozone therapy?

Some people should not do ozone therapy for medical reasons, because they may face serious complications. This group includes people with severe heart disorders, unstable blood pressure, severe lung or respiratory diseases, lack of blood coagulation or taking high-dose anticoagulants.

Also, pregnant women and those who are highly allergic to ozone or other injectable compounds are prohibited from doing this treatment. A detailed evaluation by a specialist doctor is necessary before starting the treatment to ensure the patient's safety and prevent serious complications.

Comparison of ozone injection with other methods

As a minimally invasive and non-surgical method, ozone therapy is compared to other common treatments such as epidural injections, gel injections, stem cells or surgery.

Each of these methods has its own advantages and limitations, and choosing the most appropriate treatment depends on the type of disease, the severity of the symptoms, and the physical condition of the patient.

Ozone therapy or epidural injection

Epidural injections are usually used to relieve pain caused by inflammation or pressure on nerve roots. While ozone therapy can reduce inflammation and stimulate disc tissue repair, epidural injections focus more on temporarily reducing pain and inflammation.

Ozone therapy or gel injection (hyaluronic acid)

Gel injection is used especially in knee arthritis to improve joint sliding and reduce pain. In addition to reducing pain, ozone therapy can reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation and tissue repair.

In some studies, ozone therapy and gel injections have similar effects on short-term pain, but ozone also has the advantage of stimulating the body's natural repair mechanisms (source).

Ozone therapy or stem cells

Stem cells are used to regenerate damaged tissue and have long-term results, but are more expensive and complicated than ozone therapy. Ozone therapy is a simpler, less costly and less risky method and can be used as an initial or complementary treatment step before using stem cells.

Ozone therapy or surgery

Surgery is usually recommended for severe cases resistant to non-surgical treatments. Ozone therapy is a minimally invasive method that does not have the risk of surgical complications, a long recovery period, and high costs, and can be a suitable option for reducing pain and improving joint or disc function.

In order to make the comparison between ozone therapy and other treatment methods easier and more understandable, the following table summarizes the characteristics, advantages and limitations of each method.

How much does ozone injection cost?

The cost of ozone injection varies depending on various factors and it is not possible to declare a fixed figure for all patients.

Among the factors that affect the cost of this treatment, we can mention the type of ozone therapy method (local, intravenous, intra-articular, etc.), the number of required sessions, the severity and type of the patient's condition, the equipment and quality of the treatment center, and the experience of the specialist doctor.

Also, geographic location and treatment area can also play a role in determining the cost. For this reason, it is recommended to consult with reputable centers and specialist doctors to get an accurate estimate.

How many sessions of ozone therapy are necessary?

The number of ozone therapy sessions depends on the type of disease, severity of symptoms and response of the patient's body to the treatment, and a fixed number cannot be determined for all patients.

Usually, for problems such as lumbar disc, knee arthritis or chronic muscle pain, several treatment sessions are recommended at certain intervals to stabilize the effect of pain reduction and functional improvement.

After evaluating the patient's condition and response rate to the initial sessions, the specialist doctor determines the number and interval between the sessions. The goal of scheduling sessions is to achieve maximum effectiveness of treatment with minimum complications.