News you can use. We're taking crucial steps toward better understanding Mal de Débarquement Syndrome, developing treatments, and supporting those affected.

Funding Opportunity

Next Generation Research Grant (NGRG) in MdDS

The MdDS Foundation has partnered with the American Brain Foundation (ABF) to offer the Next Generation Research Grant (NGRG) in Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS).

This grant targets early career researchers who are studying MdDS disease mechanisms or translational research specifically designed to develop treatments for or enhance diagnosis or prevention of MdDS and whose research has potential relevance beyond Mal de Débarquement Syndrome.

Key Award Details

• • Award Amount: $150,000 total ($75,000 per year for 2 years) to support salary and research-related expenses
  • Purpose: To facilitate high-quality basic, preclinical, clinical, or translational MdDS research and research career development by early-career investigators
  • Application Deadline: Applications due by October 8, 2026, 5:00 PM CT
  • Funding Period: July 1, 2027 to June 30, 2029

How to Apply

• Apply via the Proposal Central Grant Portal.
• Application instructions and more information about the NGRG program are available at the American Brain Foundation For Researchers page and the NGRG Program page.

In Progress…

Funded 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. These IRB-approved investigations are yielding valuable insights and implications.

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

Completed & Published

Funded Research

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

The focus of this research project was 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. After three weeks of treatment, all 10 subjects reported a reduction in the intensity of their rocking symptoms. While follow-up interviews at three months and one year are still pending for some participants, initial data is being analyzed. The research team is looking forward to publishing their findings to help clinicians better understand this approach.

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)

In June, 2026, “A Sensory Adaptation Program for Individuals With Mal de Débarquement Syndrome: A Case Series” was published in the Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy. Find it on the Biomedical Literature page – now sortable by author, journal, and year!

Expected to Launch in 2026…

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 over time 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 in 2026.

MdDS Sound Bite—Unlocking Insights: The Power of a Patient Registry. Listen Now!