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Tinnitus, characterized by the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears, can significantly impact one's quality of life. I’m seeing an increasing number of people who have tinnitus and it can be exhausting to hear the constant ring. Many new patients are coming in to explore acupuncture, to alleviate their tinnitus symptoms and I’ve had mixed results.
Here’s what I have found through my years of clinical experience of what the causes of tinnitus are:
TMJ
Jaw pain is often associated with tinnitus and will cause so much tightness around the temporal and jaw muscles that it literally puts pressure on the ears. This is an easy fix with acupuncture, but having a mouth guard (that fits properly!) can make a big difference.
Exposure to loud noises
Depending on how long ago this happened, it can be treated pretty easily. If given acupuncture and electrical stimulation, often accompanied by homeopathy, I’ve seen good results.
High Blood pressure
Patients with high blood pressure may have tinnitus as a result. By treating the high blood pressure with acupuncture, tinnitus wlil diminish
Lyme disease
This is a tough one to treat, especially if the underlying Lyme is not dealt with. I have known people to lose their hearing altogether as a result of Lyme. It’s imperative, if you’ve been bitten by a tick, to get treated as soon as possible. Acupuncture can then help restore those nerves with electric stim.
Stress
Yes, stress almost ALWAYS makes the ringing louder. In any of the above cases, I’ll treat the autonomic nervous system to go from fight or flight, to rest and digest and patients report a diminishing of ringing. It’s so important to have some daily practice to lessen the stress response.
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, or "qi." According to traditional Chinese medicine, imbalances in the body's energy can lead to various health issues, including tinnitus. By restoring the balance of qi, acupuncture aims to promote overall well-being and alleviate symptoms.
Research studies suggest potential benefits. Acupuncture may help improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and release tension in the muscles around the ears and head. Additionally, proponents of acupuncture believe that it can positively influence the nervous system, potentially affecting how the brain perceives tinnitus sounds.
Here is a great study on acupuncture for tinnitus: Neuropuncture, an Effective Treatment Method for Patients with Subjective Tinnitus Accompanied with Hearing Loss: Case Reports | Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncturists may focus on specific points related to the ear, head, and neck regions to address tinnitus symptoms. These points are thought to be connected to the flow of energy and blood circulation, promoting a harmonious balance within the body. Common acupuncture points for tinnitus include those around the ear, as well as points on the scalp, wrists, and feet.
While some individuals report positive experiences with acupuncture for tinnitus relief, it's essential to note that results can vary from person to person. Some find significant improvement in their symptoms, while others may experience only temporary relief. As with any alternative therapy, it’s important to let your acupuncturist know what your medical history is, including medications taken which may play a role.
While acupuncture shows promise in the realm of tinnitus treatment, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and mechanisms. As I’ve said, I’ve had mixed results. As with any alternative therapy, it's crucial to approach acupuncture with an open mind and know that it’s not just one magic treatment that will cure tinnitus. It’s often a longer process. Make sure you see a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) to ensure the best treatment.