Galvanic vestibular stimulation is the process of sending specific electric messages to a nerve in the ear that maintains balance.
There are two main groups of receptors in the vestibular system: the three semi-circular canals, and the two otolith organs (the utricle and the saccule).
The technology is being applied in Atsugi, Japan, the Mayo Clinic in the US, and a number of other research institutions around the world.
It is being investigated for a variety of applications, including biomedical, pilot training, and entertainment.
A patient undergoing GVS noted: I felt a mysterious, irresistible urge to start walking to the right whenever the researcher turned the switch to the right.