Developing Tools and a Care Path for Somatosensory Tinnitus
VA Office of Research and Development
Summary
The purpose of this study is to learn more about a type of tinnitus (ringing in the ears) known as "somatosensory tinnitus." This type of tinnitus is suspected when the tinnitus perception changes following head and/or neck movements. This study is also exploring a possible way to treat somatosensory tinnitus.
Description
The purpose of this study is to: (1) develop a screening tool for somatosensory tinnitus and (2) perform a randomized clinical trial comparing different treatment approaches for somatosensory tinnitus. The investigators want to find out if individualized physical therapy, alone or in combination with audiology-based sound therapy, is beneficial for treating somatosensory tinnitus.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Constant, chronic tinnitus (6-months in duration) * bothersome tinnitus based on TFI score and self-reported loudness * able to modulate tinnitus perception with head, neck, and/or jaw maneuvers Exclusion Criteria: * Middle ear pathology * not a candidate for physical therapy * injury to the temporomandibular area in past 3 months * active pathology in the orofacial region
Interventions
- OtherPhysical Therapy
Individuals randomized to this intervention will receive physical therapy, personalized for the participant's specific needs, and include exercises to be performed at home.
- OtherSound-based Therapy
Individuals randomized to this intervention will receive sound-based therapy, consistent with an audiology-based standard of care treatment.
- OtherCombination Therapy
Individuals randomized to this intervention will receive both individualized physical therapy and sound-based therapy.
Location
- VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, ORPortland, Oregon