Effect of Aquatic Therapy and Subsequent Training on Veterans With PTSD

Starting soon · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

In brief

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.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT07377214

Run by

AquaTerapi

People needed

50

Starts

2026-01-01

Expected to finish

2027-12-31

Last updated by the study team

2026-02-02

Who can join

Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Veteran diagnosed with PTSD.
• Willingness to complete questionnaires and respond to texts.
• Sufficient Danish language proficiency
• Practical ability to participate (sessions are Wednesday and Friday afternoons)
• Able to attend or arrange transport to Tuborgvej, 2400 Copenhagen NV
• Any substance abuse must be under control

You may not qualify if…

• Acute psychiatric crisis or severe comorbid psychiatric disorder that would prevent participation.
• Physical conditions that contraindicate participation in aquatic therapy (e.g., open wounds, severe infections, or other medical contraindications for warm water therapy).
• Lack of consent

Where it is running

• AquaTerapi, Tuborgvej, 2400 Copenhagen NV — Copenhagen, Denmark

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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