Can Acupuncture Help with Tinnitus?
Tinnitus, the perception of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears without an external source, is a frustrating and often debilitating condition. Affecting approximately one in 10 Australians, tinnitus can interfere with sleep, concentration, and overall well-being. While modern medicine offers limited treatment options, acupuncture and Chinese medicine may provide support for some individuals experiencing tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), tinnitus is believed to arise from imbalances in the body, particularly involving the kidney, liver, and gallbladder meridians. The type of tinnitus a person experiences can vary:
- Sudden, high-pitched ringing may be associated with liver Qi stagnation, often linked to stress and emotional tension.
- Low-frequency, constant buzzing may relate to kidney deficiency, a condition often seen in ageing or chronic fatigue.
- Tinnitus with dizziness and headaches may indicate excess heat or phlegm accumulation in the body.
By identifying the underlying pattern of disharmony, acupuncture treatments aim to restore balance and improve circulation to the ears and nervous system.
What Does the Research Say?
Scientific studies exploring acupuncture’s effects on tinnitus suggest potential benefits:
- A 2020 study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupuncture may help reduce the severity of tinnitus symptoms when compared to no treatment, though results vary depending on the individual (Jeon et al., 2020).
- Another study in SAGE Journals suggested that acupuncture could influence neural activity in the auditory pathways, potentially reducing the perception of tinnitus over time (Cai et al., 2020).
While more research is needed, acupuncture is increasingly considered a complementary approach for tinnitus sufferers, particularly when combined with lifestyle modifications and stress management techniques.
What to Expect from Acupuncture for Tinnitus
At True Health, we take a personalised approach to treating tinnitus. A consultation allows us to determine the type of tinnitus a patient experiences, after which a customised acupuncture treatment plan is developed. Treatment may include:
- Acupuncture to promote circulation and regulate nervous system function.
- Electroacupuncture, which uses mild electrical stimulation to enhance treatment effects.
- Herbal medicine and dietary guidance to support overall balance.
Treatment duration depends on the severity, type, and duration of tinnitus, with many patients experiencing gradual improvements over several sessions.
The Takeaway
Acupuncture may offer support for some individuals with tinnitus, particularly when tailored to the underlying cause. While it is not a guaranteed cure, it may help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being as part of a holistic approach.
If you are struggling with tinnitus and want to explore acupuncture as a complementary therapy, our team at True Health is here to help.
