A Randomized Controlled HD-tDCS Trial: Effects on Tinnitus Severity and Cognition

A Comparative, Randomized Trial on HD-tDCS and Sham Control Group: Effects on Tinnitus Severity and Cognition Including Objective Measures.

This randomized, placebo-controlled study will compare the effects of HD-tDCS (a non-invasive neuromodulation technique) with a sham stimulation. In the sham situation, patients will undergo an identical treatment but no stimulation will be applied, allowing to control for placebo effects. This study will assess the effects of HD-tDCS on chronic, non-pulsatile tinnitus in a reliable way, as confounding factors such as anxiety, depression, hearing impairment, tinnitus gradation, age, and sex will be controlled for. Ultimately, this study will result in final recommendations for a standardised protocol for the use of HD-tDCS in tinnitus patients. When accurate, individualised, and effective therapy is available for the patient, the total cost (both economical and personal) will decrease significantly. The investigation's findings will be relevant for all caretakers dealing with tinnitus patients (psychologists, psychiatrists, manual therapists, general practitioners, ENT specialists, audiologists, etc.).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Duration of tinnitus: > 6 months
• 24 < TFI score < 90
• HADS depression subscale < 12
• HADS anxiety subscale < 12
• Hyperacusis questionnaire < 40
• Dutch- or Flemish-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• Somatic tinnitus
• Pregnancy
• Active middle ear pathology
• Hearing implants
• Known tumors in the head/neck region
• Patients having already had any other tinnitus treatment within the last 2 months