Effects of exercise on learning and memory in PTSD
Official title: Exercise and Emotional Learning in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Run by University of Kentucky · NCT06127342 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if moderate exercise can help improve learning and memory in adults with PTSD from interpersonal violence to see if it leads to better symptom relief.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 64 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Kentucky Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Lexington, Kentucky and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 13, 2024 |
| Main results expected | October 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | November 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 21, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06127342 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults with PTSD stemming from interpersonal violence.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recent severe substance use disorders or significant psychiatric symptoms may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates how exercise influences learning and memory processes in adults with PTSD related to interpersonal violence. Participants will undergo MRI sessions involving imaginal exposure to traumatic memories, followed by either moderate or low intensity exercise. The study aims to determine if moderate intensity exercise enhances the consolidation of therapeutic safety learning, potentially leading to better symptom reduction for PTSD. The trial builds on previous pilot data and animal models to explore the relationship between physical activity and PTSD treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for managing PTSD symptoms through exercise.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promising results in using exercise as an adjunct treatment for PTSD, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults with PTSD related to interpersonal violence Exclusion Criteria: * Active or recent (within the last 3 months) severe substance use disorder(s) * Active or recent (within the last 3 months) suicidal, psychotic, or manic symptoms/ episodes * Significant developmental disabilities * Current daily benzodiazepine or stimulant use with inability to abstain for study sessions * Recent changes in psychiatric medication or trauma focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) (past 4-weeks) * Medical condition(s) that prohibit exercise * History of traumatic brain injury (TBI) with loss of consciousness \> 30 mins * Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contraindication(s) * Positive pregnancy test * History of seizure disorder * Spontaneous seizure(s) within the last 3 months
Where it's running
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky, United States Recruiting -
University of Texas
Austin, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thomas G Adams, Jr., PhD — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Christal G Badour, PhD
- Email: christal.badour@uky.edu
- Phone: 859-323-3817
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.