Could Hydrogen Therapy Help Treat Muscle and Joint Problems?
- Authors
- Sergej M. Ostojic
- Journal
- F1000 Research
- Year
- 2016
- DOI
- 10.12688/f1000research.9758.1
- Study Type
- clinical
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- Serbia
- Health Condition
- Neuromuscular Disorders
- Body System
- Musculoskeletal
TL;DR
Hydrogen gas might be a helpful new treatment for muscle and bone problems because it reduces inflammation and damage in the body, but doctors need to do more research before they start using it regularly.
Key Finding
Molecular hydrogen demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that have shown promise in clinical trials for various conditions, though its specific application to musculoskeletal disorders requires further investigation.
Summary
This review article examines whether molecular hydrogen (H₂)—a gas that can be dissolved in water or administered other ways—might be useful in treating musculoskeletal conditions (problems affecting muscles, bones, and joints). The authors reviewed existing evidence showing that hydrogen acts as an anti-inflammatory agent (reduces swelling) and antioxidant (protects cells from damage), and has shown promise in treating certain neurological, heart, and cancer-related conditions. They conclude that hydrogen may have potential for musculoskeletal medicine but that more research is needed.
Practical Takeaway
While this review suggests hydrogen therapy may have potential in musculoskeletal medicine, it is a summary of existing evidence rather than a new clinical trial. The authors acknowledge that standardized protocols and additional clinical trials are needed before hydrogen can be confidently recommended for specific musculoskeletal conditions. Anyone considering hydrogen therapy should consult with a healthcare provider, as evidence in this specific area remains preliminary.
Abstract
Molecular hydrogen (H 2) has recently been recognized as a potential novel therapeutic agent in biomedicine. Initially proposed to be a possible treatment for certain types of neuromuscular disorders, cardio-metabolic diseases and cancer, H 2 improved clinical end-points and surrogate markers in several clinical trials, mainly acting as an anti-inflammatory agent and powerful antioxidant. In this paper, the medicinal properties of H 2 in musculoskeletal medicine are discussed with the aim to provide an updated and practical overview for health professionals working in this field.