Using exercise to improve therapy outcomes for PTSD
Official title: Using Exercise to Enhance Consolidation of Exposure-Based Therapeutic Learning in PTSD
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11037922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether doing moderate exercise can help people with PTSD, especially those who have faced violence, feel better faster when they go through therapy that involves recalling their traumatic memories.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | February 16, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $887,393 |
| NIH project number | 5R61MH132722-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have PTSD related to experiences of interpersonal violence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have PTSD or those who are unable to participate in physical exercise may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how moderate-intensity physical exercise can enhance the effectiveness of exposure therapy for individuals with PTSD, particularly those who have experienced interpersonal violence. Participants will first engage in imaginal exposure to traumatic memories, followed by either moderate exercise or a low-intensity walking control. The study aims to measure changes in fear responses and brain activity related to trauma, with follow-up sessions to assess the impact of exercise on symptom reduction. The goal is to determine if incorporating exercise into therapy can lead to faster and more significant improvements in PTSD symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapeutic approach that significantly reduces PTSD symptoms through the integration of exercise into traditional therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using exercise as an adjunct to therapy for various mental health conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Badour, Christal L. — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Badour, Christal L.
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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.