Reducing visually induced motion sickness with vibration cues

Study Description

In today’s world, we use many visual devices and displays such as smartphones, tablets, or large-screen movie theaters. Some users report feelings of discomfort such as nausea, eye strain, or dizziness when using these devices – a sensation that is called Visually Induced Motion Sickness (VIMS). VIMS is not a disease or illness, it is a natural reaction of the body
that everyone can experience. Typically, a phase of VIMS goes away on its own after a while. 

To date, a reliable way to reduce or prevent VIMS for all age groups is not available. The goal of the present study is to find a solution for this problem. We will test whether it is possible to reduce VIMS by using a vest that can create vibration sensations in younger and older adults.

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Eligibility Criteria

We are looking for participants either between the age of 18 and 39 years or over the age of 65. Participants have to be “healthy” (no history of stroke, active vestibular disorders, disabling musculoskeletal disorder, epilepsy, acute psychiatric disorder, and/or a diagnosis of dementia or mild cognitive impairment, no pacemaker or similar medical device).

 

Duration and Compensation

The study includes a short pre-screening which can be filled in via email. The experimental session itself takes between 60-90 minutes and will take place in the KITE Research Institute. Participants will receive a $20 gift card for taking part in the study.

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Principal Investigator

This study is conducted by Dr. Behrang Keshavarz and Dr. Katharina Pohlmann. If you have any questions about the study, please contact Katharina.pohlmann@uhn.ca.

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Ethics approval

This study has been approved by the Research Ethics Board of the University Health Network (REB# 22-5982).

 

Start Date

Recruitment ongoing

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Participate

If you want to participate in this study, you can sign up below. By signing up you agree to be contacted by a research member of our team, but you do not commit to participate in the study. You can decline your participation at any time.