How aerobic exercise affects fear learning in PTSD
The influence of aerobic exercise on consolidation of fear extinction learning in PTSD
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN TUSCALOOSA · NIH-11041172
This study is looking at how different levels of aerobic exercise—light, moderate, or intense—can help people with PTSD feel less anxious and remember things better after therapy, and it also checks how a natural substance in the body might play a role in this process.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN TUSCALOOSA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (TUSCALOOSA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11041172 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how different intensities of aerobic exercise can influence the process of fear extinction learning in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By conducting a randomized controlled study using fMRI, the researchers aim to determine if light, moderate, or high-intensity exercise after exposure therapy can enhance memory recall and reduce anxiety related to trauma reminders. The study also explores the role of anandamide, a natural compound in the body, in this process. Patients may participate in exercise sessions and undergo brain imaging to assess the effects on their PTSD symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of PTSD.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have PTSD or those who are unable to participate in aerobic exercise may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for PTSD, enhancing the effectiveness of exposure therapies through the incorporation of aerobic exercise.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results with aerobic exercise enhancing fear extinction learning, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
TUSCALOOSA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN TUSCALOOSA — TUSCALOOSA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CROMBIE, KEVIN M — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN TUSCALOOSA
- Study coordinator: CROMBIE, KEVIN M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.