Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Symptoms and Cognitive Flexibility
Yale University
Summary
The purpose of this study is to examine the acute effects of exercise on cognitive flexibility and symptom reactivity. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does moderate intensity physical activity reduce subjective distress, compulsive urges, and intrusions- and increase cognitive flexibility- in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder compared to low-intensity physical activity? Researchers will compare low- to moderate-intensity exercise to see if moderate physical activity increases cognitive flexibility and reduces symptom reactivity in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Participants will: Complete self-report surveys, psychiatric interviews, and cognitive tasks. Be assigned to either a low- or moderate-intensity exercise condition and complete physical activity. Repeat cognitive and symptom measures following the exercise intervention.
Description
The proposed study aims to determine if moderate physical activity increases cognitive flexibility (aim 1) and reduces symptom reactivity (aim 2) in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) will be asked to participate in this study, which consists of two visits in addition to a self-report survey between these two visits. This study will randomize 50 adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for aims 1 and 2. First, participants will complete a phone screen to determine preliminary eligibility. During Session 1, participants wil…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–64 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults, age 18 to 64 years * Meet diagnostic criteria for OCD (per the DIAMOND) * Stable psychiatric or medication treatment (if ≥4-weeks), or if no active treatment. Psychotropic medications will be reviewed with the study psychiatrist on a case by case basis. Exclusion Criteria: * Active or unmanaged psychotic disorders, pervasive developmental disorders, bipolar disorder, current substance use disorder (moderate-to-severe), or high risk for suicide (defined as attempt, plan, or intent within past 3 months) * Documented motor impairments and medical condition(s) that…
Interventions
- BehavioralModerate-Intensity Exercise
Participants will engage in 20 minutes of cycling at approximately 70% max heart rate with a 2.5 minute warm up and a 2.5 minute cool down.
- BehavioralLow-Intensity Exercise
Participants will engage in 20 minutes of cycling at approximately 40-50% max heart rate with a 2.5 minute warm up and a 2.5 minute cool down.
Location
- Temple Medical CenterNew Haven, Connecticut