Vestibular Physiotherapy

Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS)

A persistent perception of rocking, bobbing, or swaying that develops after travel by sea, air, or land, and does not resolve with rest.

(02) 9188 0544Initial assessment: $210

Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS) is where a person continues to feel as though they are rocking, swaying or bobbing after getting off a boat, cruise, plane or other form of transport. Unlike normal "sea legs," the symptoms do not settle within a few hours or days and can persist for months.

Risk factors & causes

  • Most commonly develops after prolonged travel on a boat or cruise
  • Can also occur after flying, long train journeys or other passive motion
  • More common in women
  • The exact cause is unknown but is thought to involve the brain having difficulty readapting after prolonged exposure to motion
  • Stress, fatigue and hormonal changes may contribute to symptoms or flare-ups

Common symptoms

  • Persistent rocking, swaying or bobbing sensation
  • Feeling as though you are walking on a trampoline or floating
  • Symptoms often improve while travelling in a car but return when stationary
  • Unsteadiness or balance difficulties
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating ("brain fog")
  • Sensitivity to busy visual environments
  • Anxiety or low mood due to ongoing symptoms

Get help with Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS)

Book with our Vestibular Physiotherapy team · Initial assessment: $210

Who can help?

  • Vestibular physiotherapist
  • Neurologist
  • Psychologist if anxiety or persistent symptoms are affecting quality of life

How Simba Health treats Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS)

Our vestibular physiotherapy clinicians assess the cause of your symptoms and build a personalised, evidence-based plan to treat Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS). With no GP referral required and initial appointments from $210, you can start care quickly at a clinic near you.

Frequently asked questions

No. You can book vestibular physiotherapy directly at Simba Health with no GP referral, so you can start treatment for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS) without delay. Initial appointments start from $210. A referral may still help if you're claiming under a care plan.

Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS) is treated under our vestibular physiotherapy service, with initial consultations from $210 and lower follow-up fees. We keep our pricing transparent so you know what to expect before your appointment.

Our vestibular physiotherapy clinicians assess the underlying cause of your symptoms, then build a personalised, evidence-based treatment plan for Mal de Débarquement Syndrome (MdDS). Many people start to notice improvement once the right plan is underway.

Not sure this is right for you?

Call us and we'll help you find the right service and clinician for your needs.

(02) 9188 0544