Comparing two methods of therapy for PTSD using virtual reality and treadmill walking

Computer Monitor Versus Augmented Reality: Expanding 3MDR Therapy for PTSD

NA · Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences · NCT05244564

This study is testing two different ways of using virtual reality and treadmill walking to help people with PTSD feel better through a special therapy called 3MDR.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (fed)
Locations1 site (Bethesda, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT05244564 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial is a prospective randomized controlled trial that compares two methods of delivering Motion-assisted, Multi-modular Memory Desensitization and Reconsolidation (3MDR) therapy for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study will enroll 60 eligible volunteers from the Department of Defense healthcare system, who will participate in 10-14 therapy sessions lasting 60-90 minutes each. Participants will walk on a treadmill while engaging with a therapist and integrating chosen pictures and music into a virtual reality environment. The effectiveness of the two delivery methods will be assessed before therapy, immediately after, and at 3 and 6 months post-therapy.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are service members, veterans, retirees, or eligible dependents aged 18 and older with a confirmed diagnosis of PTSD.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy, psychotic disorders, or those currently using benzodiazepines may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a more accessible and effective treatment option for patients suffering from PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown the effectiveness of the 3MDR approach in treating PTSD symptoms, indicating a promising avenue for this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Service member, veteran, retiree, or DEERS-eligible dependent, male or female, at least 18 years or older
* Diagnosis of PTSD, as confirmed by the CAPS-5
* Able to ambulate with contact guard assistance or less, and walk unassisted on a treadmill, at a normal pace, for up to 90 minutes continuously

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of epilepsy or a seizure disorder, other than febrile seizures that occurred during childhood and have not recurred since
* History of a psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, or active suicidal or homicidal ideation
* Use of benzodiazepines on a regular basis within the previous 30 days

Where this trial is running

Bethesda, Maryland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.