New treatment approach for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome using VR technology
Official title: Developing Robust Treatment Options for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome
Run by Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NCT05460520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether virtual reality goggles can help people with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome feel better when used with regular therapy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 78 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | April 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | February 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05460520 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome who show significant symptom improvement with passive motion.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with abnormal vestibular function, confounding neurological disorders, or those who have previously undergone VOR readaptation treatment may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance treatment options for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS) by testing the efficacy of virtual reality (VR) goggles to generate visual motion for therapy. The investigators will evaluate the effectiveness of this VR-based approach alongside traditional vestibular rehabilitation techniques to improve patient outcomes. The study will also explore complementary interventions to reduce sensitivity to physical movement and visually induced dizziness, which are common symptoms of MdDS. By broadening access to effective treatment, the goal is to enable local therapy options for patients and improve long-term symptom management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a more accessible and effective treatment option for patients suffering from MdDS.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of VR technology in vestibular therapy is innovative, previous studies have shown promising results with traditional VOR readaptation techniques, suggesting potential for success with this novel approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Conformable diagnosis of Mal de Débarquement Syndrome including significant improvement of symptoms with passive motion. Exclusion Criteria: * A history of abnormal inner ear or central vestibular function indicated by abnormal nystagmography test (abnormal saccades or pursuit, VOR suppression index \<85%, no caloric response, decay time constant of response to rotation less than 10 seconds, spontaneous nystagmus). * Confounding neurological disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, epilepsy, blindness etc.). * A history of leg, spine, or other injuries that affect their ability to stand or walk without assisting support. * High level of anxiety as indicated by State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (≥75) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (≥55). * Claustrophobia. * Patients previously treated with VOR readaptation technique are excluded.
Where it's running
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sergei Yakushin, PhD — Ichan Scool of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Sergei Yakushin, PhD
- Email: sergei.yakushin@mssm.edu
- Phone: (212) 241-9349
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.