Finding better treatments for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome

Developing robust treatment options for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11097148

This study is looking for ways to help people with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome, a condition that makes you feel like you're still rocking or swaying after being on a boat or other moving vehicle, by trying out a new treatment that uses special head movements and visual tricks to help your balance feel normal again.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097148 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS), a chronic balance disorder that often follows prolonged passive motion. Patients experience persistent sensations of rocking or swaying, which can severely impact their daily lives. The research aims to develop effective treatment options by utilizing a novel approach that involves physiological readaptation of the vestibulo-ocular reflex. This treatment is administered in a specialized setting, where patients undergo head maneuvers while experiencing visual stimulation to help recalibrate their sense of motion.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome, particularly those experiencing persistent balance issues after exposure to motion.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Mal de Débarquement Syndrome or those whose symptoms are not related to balance disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide effective treatment options for patients suffering from the debilitating symptoms of MdDS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar treatment approaches for balance disorders, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.