In Progress…

Funded Research

Physical therapy for symptom reduction using sensory re-weighting for people with Mal de Debarquement Syndrome

South Valley Physical Therapy, Denver, CO
Principal Investigators: Sarah Gallagher, PT, DPT, NCS, Chelsea R. Van Zytveld PT, DPT, Patricia Winkler, PT, DSc, NCS (emeritus)

The focus of this research project is reducing the symptoms of MdDS by retraining appropriate use of the sensory systems and re-establishing the ability to reweight to different sensory input during standing activities on firm as well as moving surfaces. Studies are underway, however, patient recruitment is currently closed to enrollment.

In Progress…

More Research

Navigating the Seas of Disorientation: Correlating Motion Exposures with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome Symptoms in Sailors

A collaborative effort between the University of California San Diego and the Naval Medical Centers in San Diego, CA, and Portsmouth, VA, this research initiative aims to elucidate the correlation between specific types of motion exposure and symptoms associated with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS). MdDS poses a significant public health challenge, affecting both military personnel and civilians. The primary objective of this study is to construct a predictive model for MdDS onset based on observed motion patterns. Through the identification of precise motion triggers for MdDS, the research endeavors to facilitate the development of targeted prevention and treatment strategies, ultimately alleviating the healthcare burden imposed by this debilitating condition.

Principal Investigator: Akihiro J. Matsuoka, MD, DMSc, PhD, FACS
Director, Balance and Vestibular Program
Associate Professor
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA

Applications in Review…

Clinical Research Training Scholarship (CRTS)

In collaboration with the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and American Brain Foundation (ABF), the MdDS Foundation is offering a Clinical Research Training Scholarship focused on MdDS in 2025. The two-year award totaling $150,000 is intended to recognize good clinical research and to encourage early career investigators to pursue clinical studies on Mal de Debarquement Syndrome and Central Vestibular Neurological Disorders.

Coming this Fall…

MdDS Patient Registry

Our patient registry, in development, aims to find answers to critical questions about MdDS. Powered by the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) IAMRARE® platform, natural history registries gather information that may help researchers identify potential treatments, launch trials, and equip healthcare providers with information that will improve diagnoses and therapies. Learn about the program and be ready to join and start taking surveys in the Mal de Debarquement Syndrome IAMRARE® Patient Registry this Fall.