Somatosensory Tinnitus RCT

Developing Tools and a Care Path for Somatosensory Tinnitus

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.

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.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Constant, chronic tinnitus (6-months in duration)
• Bothersome tinnitus based on Tinnitus Functional Index (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