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Exercise improves health outcomes in Veterans with TBI

VA Research News Briefs

Exercise improves health outcomes in Veterans with TBIPhoto ©iStock/FG Trade Latin

(07/30/2026) While it is well known physical activity improves mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and even PTSD symptoms, VA San Diego and Greater Los Angeles researchers showed exercise can also improve health outcomes for Veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The VA Million Veteran Program survey included more than 7,000 Veterans who had been screened for TBI, finding the connection between physical activity and health outcomes was even more pronounced in Veterans with TBI, suggesting physical activity could be an important way to help alleviate chronic TBI symptoms. Higher levels of physical activity were connected to greater effect on health outcomes, and even small amounts of physical activity resulted in meaningful improvements. The results underscore the potential of exercise as an accessible intervention for Veterans with TBI. (Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, Jun. 19, 2026)



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