Effect of Aquatic Therapy and Subsequent Training on Veterans With PTSD

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.

NCT Number	NCT07377214
Lead Sponsor	AquaTerapi Collaborators: Herlev and Gentofte Hospital
Conditions	Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Enrollment	50 participants
Start Date	2026-01-01
Primary Completion	2027-12-31 (estimated)
Study Completion	2027-12-31 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-02-02