Exploring the effects of floatation therapy on PTSD
The Feasibility and Examination of the Effects of Floatation-based Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) on a Community Sample With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
This study is testing whether floatation therapy can help adults with PTSD, including veterans and civilians, feel better by reducing their symptoms.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical College of Wisconsin Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) |
| Trial ID | NCT04368689 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot project investigates the impact of floatation-based Reduced Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) on adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study aims to recruit a diverse community sample, including both veterans and civilians, to assess the psychological, physiological, and subjective effects of floating. Participants will undergo floatation sessions while their responses are evaluated to determine the therapy's effectiveness in alleviating PTSD symptoms.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-60 with a confirmed diagnosis of PTSD.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions, skin issues, or those who have previously floated may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could provide a novel, non-invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: While floatation therapy is a relatively novel approach for PTSD, preliminary studies suggest potential benefits, though comprehensive data is limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Has posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as confirmed by the PCL-5 * 18-60 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * History of neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, stroke, severe traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia) * Any skin conditions or open wounds that could cause pain when exposed to saltwater * Has floated previously * Has Schizophrenia spectrum or other psychotic disorders * Refuses to adhere to the Pre-Float Checklist * Non-English speaking * Inability to lay comfortably in a shallow pool of water * Refuses participation in the floatation-REST sessions * Refuses to sign the Float Liability Waiver prior to floating * No Communicable disease (e.g.- HIV, Hepatitis A, B\& C, tuberculosis, or measles) * No psychoactive drugs or laxatives within the past week from scheduled float. Psychoactive drugs include, but are not limited to: methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, peyote, phencyclidine, ketamine).No recreational drug use (e.g.tetrahydrocannabinol,abuse of prescription medicine) day before or day of study visit. No antihistamine that causes drowsiness and no alcohol the day of the float sessions. * Lack of control of bodily functions prior to scheduled float * Fresh tattoos that would inhibit ability to float (consult with tattoo artist) * Colored/dyed hair less than one week old from scheduled float * Body tanning/spay/paint less than one week old from scheduled float * Active suicidal ideation
Where this trial is running
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Terri deRoon-Cassini, PhD — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Kelley Jazinski-Chambers, BA
- Email: Kjazinski@mcw.edu
- Phone: 414-955-1742
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.