Publication
Title
Assessing the synergistic effectiveness of intermittent theta burst stimulation and the vestibular ocular reflex rehabilitation protocol in the treatment of Mal de Debarquement Syndrome : a randomised controlled trial
Author
Abstract
IntroductionMal de Debarquement Syndrome (MdDS) is a rare central vestibular disorder characterised by a constant sensation of motion (rocking, swaying, bobbing), which typically arises after motion experiences (e.g. sea, air, and road travel), though can be triggered by non-motion events. The current standard of care is non-specific medications and interventions that only result in mild-to-moderate improvements. The vestibular ocular reflex (VOR) rehabilitation protocol, a specialised form of rehabilitation, has shown promising results in reducing symptoms amongst people with MdDS. Accumulating evidence suggests that it may be possible to augment the effects of VOR rehabilitation via non-invasive brain stimulation protocols, such as theta burst stimulation (TBS).MethodsThe aim of this randomised controlled trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of intermittent TBS (iTBS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in enhancing the effectiveness of a subsequently delivered VOR rehabilitation protocol in people with MdDS. Participants were allocated randomly to receive either Sham (n = 10) or Active (n = 10) iTBS, followed by the VOR rehabilitation protocol. Subjective outcome measures (symptom ratings and mental health scores) were collected 1 week pre-treatment and for 16 weeks post-treatment. Posturography (objective outcome) was recorded each day of the treatment week.ResultsSignificant improvements in subjective and objective outcomes were reported across both treatment groups over time, but no between-group differences were observed.DiscussionThese findings support the effectiveness of the VOR rehabilitation protocol in reducing MdDS symptoms. Further research into iTBS is required to elucidate whether the treatment has a role in the management of MdDS. TRN: ACTRN12619001519145 (Date registered: 04 November 2019).
Language
English
Source (journal)
Journal of neurology. - Berlin, 1974, currens
Publication
Heidelberg : Springer heidelberg , 2024
ISSN
0340-5354 [print]
1432-1459 [online]
DOI
10.1007/S00415-024-12215-5
Volume/pages
271 :3 (2024) , p. 1492-1494
ISI
001160548300001
Pubmed ID
38345630
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
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Creation 04.03.2024
Last edited 02.07.2024
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