A new wellness business in Cheltenham is offering residents a range of therapies focused on recovery, wellbeing and physical health.
Cotswold Hyperbarics & Wellness, based on Cheltenham High Street, provides hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), full-body red light therapy and leg compression therapy.
The business was established by the owner of Sandford Foot Clinic, Natalie Collins, who has almost a decade of experience working in clinical practice. Her own experience of living with fibromyalgia led her to explore approaches beyond conventional medication and sparked an interest in functional medicine and complementary therapies.
That research led her to hyperbaric oxygen and red light therapy, which she subsequently experienced herself before developing Cotswold Hyperbarics & Wellness.
In this Q&A, she explains what the different treatments involve, why people choose them, how clients are screened for their suitability, and the types of people using the service, from athletes and active individuals to those seeking additional support alongside medical care.
What made you open Cotswold Hyperbarics & Wellness in Cheltenham?
I have run Sandford Foot Clinic in Cheltenham for almost 10 years, working in clinical practice and providing patient-centred care. My background in healthcare has given me a strong understanding of the importance of evidence-informed practice, clinical assessment, and delivering care tailored to the individual.
A few years ago, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition for which there is currently no cure. I was keen to explore approaches beyond relying solely on medication for symptom management. This led me to develop a deeper interest in functional medicine and to research complementary approaches to health, recovery and wellbeing.
Through this research, I discovered hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and red light therapy. After experiencing these therapies myself and noticing a significant improvement in my own health and wellbeing, I became increasingly interested in the physiology and scientific research behind these technologies, particularly the field of hyperbaric medicine.
That journey ultimately led to the creation of Cotswold Hyperbarics & Wellness.
Can you explain the different treatments you offer in simple terms?
We offer Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), full-body red light therapy, and leg compression therapy. Each works in a different way, using oxygen under increased pressure, specific wavelengths of light, and compression to support the body’s natural healing processes.
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and what does a typical session involve?
HBOT involves relaxing inside our hard-shell hyperbaric chamber while the atmospheric pressure is increased and oxygen is breathed through a mask. Increased pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve into the blood plasma, increasing oxygen availability to tissues. Sessions are comfortable and closely supervised throughout.
Who might consider HBOT, and who should seek medical advice before booking?
People explore HBOT for many reasons, from recovery and physical performance to general wellbeing or complementary support alongside medical care. Everyone is screened for contraindications, and certain medical conditions, medications or circumstances may require medical clearance.
What is red light therapy and what do clients usually come to you for?
Red light therapy, or photobiomodulation, uses specific red and near-infrared wavelengths that interact with cells and cellular signalling. Clients are interested in it for recovery, skin health, exercise, and general wellbeing.
What is leg compression therapy designed to support?
Our compression boots gently inflate and release in sequence around the legs, helping to support healthy circulation and the natural movement of fluid. They’re popular with people experiencing tired, heavy, or swollen-feeling legs as well as those looking to support recovery after exercise.
Can people combine treatments as part of a tailored plan?
Absolutely. HBOT and red light therapy work in complementary ways. HBOT increases oxygen availability throughout the body, while red light therapy supports cellular activity and energy production. Together, they offer two different approaches to supporting the body’s natural recovery and wellbeing processes.
How do you make sure treatments are safe and appropriate?
Screening is extremely important to us. We consider contraindications and medications, identify when medical clearance may be appropriate, and support clients throughout their visit.
Are the therapies suitable for sportspeople, professionals and older clients?
Absolutely. We see a real mixture of people of all ages and from very different backgrounds. Many of our clients are looking for additional support around surgical recovery or are living with longer-term health concerns including autoimmune conditions, neuropathy, neurological conditions, fibromyalgia, arthritis and many others – the list really does go on.
At the other end of the spectrum, we work with athletes and active individuals looking to support recovery, training and performance, as well as people who simply want to take a more proactive approach to their health and wellbeing.
What feedback have you received since opening?
The response has been incredible. It’s so rewarding seeing the difference in people. Clients regularly comment on how calm and welcoming the space feels, how the team has been so supportive, and we continually receive positive feedback about their individual experiences.
What do you hope people take away after visiting?
That they’ve been listened to, looked after and given honest information. We want people to feel comfortable asking questions and understanding the science behind what we offer.
Where are you based, and how can readers find out more?
We’re based on Cheltenham High Street.
Telephone: 01242 374299 or visit cotswoldhyperbarics.co.uk
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