Innovative Motion Sickness Solutions for Military Personnel
Spark Biomedical, a pioneering company in wearable neurostimulation technology, is embarking on a groundbreaking study to assess the effectiveness of transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) in addressing motion sickness and spatial disorientation faced by military personnel. This significant research is supported by a $480,000 grant from the Defense Health Agency RESTORAL program, alongside collaboration with the Air Force's 59th Medical Wing. The initiative seeks to alleviate the serious challenges presented by motion sickness and spatial disorientation, which have historically led to the tragic loss of over one hundred U.S. Air Force members and incurred around $2.3 billion in financial losses from 1993 to 2013.
The Challenges of Motion Sickness
Despite extensive training, military personnel are often susceptible to motion sickness and spatial disorientation. These conditions occur when the brain struggles to orient itself in relation to its environment, leading to detrimental consequences in critical situations. Current measures employed by the Department of Defense to manage such situations are inadequate for combat scenarios, largely due to the sedative side effects of conventional pharmaceutical treatments.
Exploring Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation
To mitigate these challenges, Spark Biomedical is launching a study to explore the effects of tAN therapy on symptoms associated with motion sickness and spatial disorientation. The company’s advanced tAN platform, Sparrow Ascent, has already received FDA clearance for treating opioid withdrawal symptoms. By applying mild electrical signals through the skin around the ear, tAN aims to stimulate the vagus and trigeminal nerves to rectify the sensory mismatches that lead to motion sickness and spatial disorientation. This approach enhances decision-making and safety for pilots, avoiding the drawbacks of traditional treatments.
The Need for Innovative Solutions
"Spark is dedicated to extending the reach of tAN therapy, enhancing outcomes for military service members," stated Dr. Melanie McWade, Ph.D., Senior Director of Clinical Operations at Spark Biomedical. "Our technology is advantageous due to its non-invasive and non-sedating nature, making it ideal for Department of Defense personnel who must navigate dynamic environments. This study is set to be the first randomized controlled clinical trial examining the use of tAN therapy specifically for alleviating motion sickness and spatial disorientation, which are critical gaps in current care options.”
A Study with Real-World Implications
Lieutenant Colonel Isaac D. Erbele, M.D., from the Otolaryngology Department at Brooke Army Medical Center, voiced excitement regarding the study: "If successful, this device could significantly enhance warfighter performance in challenging environments, affecting our soldiers, airmen, and sailors greatly.”
The study will occur at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph and aims to enroll 36 participants, who will either receive actual or sham transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation. Following this, they will engage in simulations designed to replicate situations leading to motion sickness and spatial disorientation. Participants will complete a series of tasks to assess their cognitive abilities during these simulations.
Potential Impact on Military Efficacy
If the study yields positive results, demonstrating a decrease in symptoms related to motion sickness and spatial disorientation, the integration of transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation could substantially enhance military personnel’s operational effectiveness. Enrollment for the trial is currently in progress.
About The 59th Medical Wing
The 59th Medical Wing serves as the Air Force’s foremost healthcare, medical education, research, and readiness unit. They aspire to deliver exemplary patient care while promoting readiness and developing warrior medics. Dedicated to patient safety and comprehensive health services, the 59th Medical Wing provides extensive healthcare to over 255,000 beneficiaries within the Defense Health Agency.
About Spark Biomedical
Spark Biomedical, Inc. is an innovative U.S.-based medical device developer focused on bioelectronic medicine. The company aims to introduce novel wearable neurostimulation treatments in various healthcare domains, including behavioral health and chronic pain management. With a robust foundation in neuroscience and engineering, Spark empowers healthcare providers with advanced tools tailored to tackle complex healthcare challenges. The company has garnered support from federal agencies such as the NIH and DoD and continues to build partnerships with private and academic institutions. Spark Biomedical is paving the way for future advancements in patient care and medical technology. For further details, visit sparkbiomedical.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Spark Biomedical's study?
The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation in reducing motion sickness and spatial disorientation among military personnel.
How does tAN work?
Transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation delivers small electrical signals through the skin around the ear, targeting specific nerves to help correct sensory mismatches related to motion sickness.
What are the expected outcomes of this trial?
If successful, the study could demonstrate reduced symptoms of motion sickness and spatial disorientation, enhancing operational performance for military personnel.
Who is leading the study?
The study is led by the Air Force's 59th Medical Wing in collaboration with Spark Biomedical.
How can one participate in the study?
Enrollment is currently open for the study, targeting 36 military personnel who meet the specific inclusion criteria.
