Studying How Exercise Affects Heart and Artery Health in Adults with PTSD Using Advanced Imaging

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how exercise affects brain activity and arterial inflammation in people who have symptoms of PTSD and either have or are at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease. This study uses a special non-invasive imaging technique called PETMRI to explore these effects on cardiovascular health in this population. The research is led by Massachusetts General Hospital and aims to better understand the link between exercise, brain function, and artery inflammation in PTSD patients with cardiovascular concerns. Participants will take part in a specially designed exercise program that gradually increases the workload on the heart and blood vessels. The study measures changes before and after 12 to 16 weeks of exercise. Key measurements include heart rate, blood pressure, heart rate variability, arterial inflammation, and bone marrow inflammation, all assessed using imaging and other tests. During the study, participants will have evaluations at the start and after completing the exercise program. These include heart and blood vessel monitoring, imaging scans, and assessments of inflammation. The study tracks these outcomes to understand how exercise influences cardiovascular risk factors and brain activity over the treatment period. The total participation lasts about 3 to 4 months with careful monitoring of health measures throughout.

Determining the Benefits of Exercise on Cardiovascular Risk in PTSD