Analgetic effect of ozone therapy: myths of reality?

Introduction: Administration of an oxygen-ozone mixture is one of the innovative techniques used in single-drug or complex therapeutic schemes for treatment of many degenerative-dystrophic pathologies of the musculoskeletal system and related neurological complications. Aim: The aim was to determine the mechanisms of physiological action of the oxygen-ozone mixture in order to substantiate its efficacy for treatment of chronic pain syndrome with underlying degenerative-dystrophic pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. Material and methods: The article covers biochemical and pathomorphological studies that explain the mechanism of the pain syndrome and the potential effect of the ozone therapy. Results and discussion: The treatment schemes and benefits of different routes of ozone administration (intramuscularly, intravenously, intradiscally and intraarticularly) were analyzed. Diverse research data demonstrated influence on the causes of chronic pain, pathophysiological phases, and possible complications. The prospects of further studies for development of the most effective techniques for treatment of various pain syndromes were assessed. Conclusions: Ozone therapy is one of the alternative rehabilitation methods with a substantial pain relieving effect. As of today, the possibility of using the oxygen-ozone mixture for treatment of chronic back pain related to intervertebral disk hernia and fibromyalgia has been substantially confirmed.