Augmenting virtual reality exposure for PTSD with physical activity: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Virtual Reality

Background:

• Physical activity is an emerging augmentation strategy in trauma-focused treatments.
• Multi-modal Motion-assisted Memory Desensitization and Reconsolidation (3MDR) uses walking during VR exposure therapy.
• The mechanism by which walking enhances trauma treatment remains unexamined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating the specific effect of walking during VR exposure on PTSD treatment outcomes.
• To determine if walking toward trauma-related stimuli reduces avoidance behaviors more effectively.
• To evaluate the impact of physical activity within VR therapy for PTSD.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 158 PTSD patients.
• Two conditions: VR exposure with walking vs. VR exposure without walking (stationary).
• Primary outcome: clinician-rated PTSD symptom severity; secondary outcomes: trauma-related avoidance and self-reported PTSD symptoms.

Main Results:

• Data collection ongoing; results not yet available.
• The study is designed to provide empirical evidence on the efficacy of walking in VR exposure therapy.
• Analysis will focus on differences in symptom reduction between the walking and stationary groups.

Conclusions:

• This RCT will determine if incorporating walking into VR exposure therapy augments PTSD treatment.
• Findings will elucidate the role of physical activity in reducing trauma-related avoidance.
• The study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for PTSD treatment protocols.