Effect of Aquatic Therapy and Subsequent Training on Veterans With PTSD

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

AquaTherapy: The intervention consists of a 32-week program for veterans diagnosed with PTSD, delivered in two consecutive phases. The first phase comprises 16 weeks of individual Aquatic Therapy where each participant receives one-on-one aquatic physiotherapy sessions with a trained physiotherapist in a warm water pool (34-36°C), twice weekly. These sessions focus on relaxation, gentle movement, and body awareness, aiming to reduce stress and establish a sense of safety and calm. Following the individual phase, participants transition to a 16-week group-based aquatic training program. This second phase involves weekly sessions in small groups (up to six participants per group) and emphasizes cardiovascular fitness, strength, mobility, and relaxation, all conducted in the same warm water environment. The group format is designed to reinforce physical gains, promote social engagement, and support the maintenance of improved activity levels.

Study summary

This project investigates the effect of Aquatic Therapy followed by group training for 50 veterans diagnosed with PTSD.

Around 40% of Danish veterans experience insufficient benefit from current standard treatments, especially regarding sleep and quality of life.

The study is a single-group, pre-post feasibility study, where participants receive 16 weeks of individual aquatic therapy (twice weekly) in a 34 °C pool, followed by 16 weeks of group-based aquatic exercise (once weekly). Participants are recruited through military psychiatric clinics and veteran organizations.

The primary outcome is change in PTSD symptoms measured by the PCL-M questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include sleep quality (PSQI), quality of life (WHO-5), anxiety and depression (HSCL-25), and social participation. Data are collected before, after, and at one-year follow-up. The study also evaluates feasibility in terms of recruitment, adherence, acceptability, and follow-up rates.

The aim is to achieve clinically relevant reductions in PTSD symptoms, improved sleep, and enhanced quality of life. The project is conducted in collaboration with military psychiatric services, and veteran organizations, and is managed by Gentofte Hospital. The intervention is considered safe and non-invasive, and all ethical and data protection regulations are followed. The project will provide rapid access to new treatment, generate knowledge for national implementation. Previous studies indicate marked and lasting improvements in sleep, symptoms, and quality of life, supporting reintegration into work and social life.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Change in PTSD symptoms measured by the PTSD Checklist - Military Version (PCL-M) — Baseline, end of 32-week intervention, and 1-year follow-up.
  Outcome Measure Description: Change in PTSD symptom severity assessed using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist - Military Version (PCL-M). The PCL-M is a 17-item self-report questionnaire with total scores ranging from 17 to 85, where higher scores indicate more severe PTSD symptoms. A clinically meaningful improvement is defined as a reduction of ≥10 points from baseline.

Trial sites (1)