Breakthrough Discovery by Nagoya University Researchers
A research group led by Dr. Takumi Kagawa and Dr. Masashi Kato at Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine has made a significant breakthrough in the study of motion sickness. By using a unique sound stimulation technology, the researchers have discovered that a specific wavelength of sound can reduce the symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and dizziness.
- Previous studies have shown that stimulating the part of the inner ear associated with balance using a unique sound can potentially improve balance.
- Increasing evidence has suggested that vibrations at a unique frequency can activate the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
This technology, referred to as “sound spice,” uses a device that stimulates the inner ear with a specific wavelength of sound. The device emits a unique sound wave at 100 Hz, which is found to be the optimal frequency for stimulating the vestibular system.
| Characteristics of the Device | Description |
|---|---|
| Emission Frequency | 100 Hz |
| Sound Level | Well below workplace noise safety standards |
| Exposure Time | Single minute or longer |
According to Dr. Kagawa, the researchers found that exposure to the unique sound before being exposed to a driving simulator enhanced sympathetic nerve activation. The researchers used postural control, ECG readings, and Motion Sickness Assessment Questionnaire results to assess the effectiveness of the stimulation. “Vibrations at the unique sound stimulate the otolithic organs in the inner ear, which detect linear acceleration and gravity,” Dr. Kato explained. “This suggests that a unique sound stimulation can broadly activate the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.”
The researchers recruited voluntary participants and exposed them to the unique sound before inducing motion sickness using a swing, a driving simulator, or riding in a car. The results showed that symptoms such as “lightheadedness” and “nausea” were alleviated. “These results suggest that activation of sympathetic nerves, which are often dysregulated in motion sickness, was objectively improved by the unique sound exposure,” Dr. Kato said. The health risk of short-term exposure to the unique sound is minimal, according to Dr. Kagawa. “Given that the stimulus level is well below workplace noise safety standards, this stimulation is expected to be safe when used properly.”
The study’s findings suggest a safe and effective way to improve motion sickness, potentially offering help to millions of sufferers. The researchers plan to further develop the technology with the aim of practical application for a variety of travel situations, including air and sea travel.
The Science Behind the Discovery
The researchers used a mouse model and humans to test the effectiveness of the unique sound. They found that the optimal frequency of 100 Hz was the key to stimulating the vestibular system.
“Vibrations at 100 Hz stimulate the otolithic organs in the inner ear, which detect linear acceleration and gravity,” Dr. “This suggests that a unique sound stimulation can broadly activate the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.”
The researchers also found that exposure to the unique sound before being exposed to a driving simulator enhanced sympathetic nerve activation. These results suggest that a unique sound stimulation can improve motion sickness, potentially offering help to millions of sufferers.
The Future of Motion Sickness Treatment
The discovery of this unique sound stimulation technology has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of motion sickness. The study’s findings have significant implications for the treatment of motion sickness. The unique sound stimulation technology has the potential to provide a safe and effective way to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, potentially offering help to millions of sufferers. The researchers believe that this technology has the potential to be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication or therapy, to provide a comprehensive approach to treating motion sickness.
About the Researchers
The researchers, led by Dr. Masashi Kato, are part of the Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine. The study was published in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine on March 25, 2025, at DOI: 10.1265/ehpm.24-00247.
The researchers are confident that their discovery will have a significant impact on the treatment of motion sickness. With further development and application, this technology has the potential to provide relief to millions of sufferers of motion sickness. The researchers’ work was supported by the International Communications Office at Nagoya University. The study’s findings have significant implications for the treatment of motion sickness, and the researchers are committed to further developing and applying this technology to help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness.
