Acupuncture for Tinnitus

Raleigh Capitol (2025)

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is characterized by the perception of sound in the absence of any external auditory stimulus. Individuals commonly describe this phenomenon as a ringing or buzzing sensation; however, it may also manifest as hissing, roaring, or clicking sounds affecting one or both ears. This condition is prevalent and impacts a considerable portion of the population, frequently occurring in conjunction with hearing impairment or other underlying medical issues.

Causes

While the precise mechanisms are still being researched, some of the factors have been linked to tinnitus including hearing loss, ear infections, head injuries, loud noise exposure, and other medical conditions. The less common risk factors include Meniere's disease, jaw joint problems, tumour-related disorders, blood vessel problems and chronic conditions such as diabetes, anaemia, certain autoimmune disorders and thyroid disorders.  

One prominent hypothesis suggests that tinnitus may arise from damage to the inner ear, which subsequently alters the signals transmitted by nerves to the auditory processing centers of the brain. Furthermore, research indicates that unusual interactions between the auditory cortex and other neural pathways might also contribute to tinnitus. Given that the auditory cortex interacts with brain regions governing attention and emotions, research has demonstrated alterations in these non-auditory areas in some individuals experiencing tinnitus.

Signs and symptoms

Aside from the perception of phantom sounds, tinnitus can also manifest through a variety of other symptoms. These may include challenges with disruptions to sleep patterns, concentration,feelings of anxiety, symptoms of depression, and increased irritability.

Treatment

Tinnitus treatment is centered on the management of the condition, given the absence of a definitive cure. Successful approaches typically encompass sound therapy, the use of hearing aids, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and adjustments to lifestyle. While there are currently no specific pharmaceutical treatments available, a medical practitioner may suggest antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to assist with mood regulation or sleep. 

Acupuncture 

Despite the current limitations in comprehensive research regarding the efficacy of acupuncture for tinnitus, the existing findings suggest that acupuncture may offer benefits in the management of tinnitus. 

About the Author

Youngmi Choi

Ripple Acupuncture | Newcastle | New Lambton

As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with 15 years of nursing experience, I offer safe, effective, and holistic care.

My special interests include pain management, psycho-emotional well-being, digestive balance, and women’s health & fertility. My approach is outcome-focused, and clients receive a clear care plan with personalized lifestyle advice.

If you have any questions about your tinnitus condition, please make an online booking, submit an online enquiry or call me on 0402 474 884. 

Reference

1. NIH (2003). Tinnitus; [reviewed 2025 May 13]. Available from: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus#2

2. Esmaili, A.A. & Renton, J. A review of tinnitus. Australian Journal of General Practice. 2018; 47(4): 205-208. doi:10.31128/AJGP-12-17-4420

3. Langguth B.,  Kreuzer PM,  Kleinjung T., &  De Ridder D. Tinnitus: causes and clinical management.  Lancet Neurology, 2013; 12(9):920-930. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1474-4422(13)70160-1

4. Gu, H., Kong, W., Yin, H. & Zheng, Y. Prevalence of sleep impairment in patients with tinnitus: a systematic review and single-arm meta-analysis. European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology. 2022; 279(5):2211-2221. doi: 10.1007/s00405-021-07092-x 

5. Henry, JA, Roberts, LE, Caspary, DM, Theodoroff, SM & Salvi, RJ. Underlying mechanisms of Tinnitus: Review and clinical implications. Journal of the American Academy of Audiology. 2014;25(1):5–126.doi: 10.3766/jaaa.25.1.2.

6. Shencun, Y., Jingfen, W., Yize, S. & Jian, L. Advances in acupuncture treatment for tinnitus. American Journal of Otolaryngology. 2024; 45(3).  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjoto.2024.104215

7. Kim, BH., Moon, YK., Kim, MH. & Nam, HJ. Comparing the effects of manual acupuncture, electroacupuncture and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on chronic tinnitus: A randomized controlled trial. Integr Med Res. 2020;9:1–5.

8. Manz, E.J., Sertel, S., Szecsenyi, J., Plinkert, P.K. & Joos, S. Acupuncture as complementary treatment for acute tinnitus: a randomized controlled pilot study.  Complement Medicine Research. 2021; 28(2): 96-103; https://doi.org/10.1159/000508630

9. Xu, X., Xie, H., Liu, Z., Guo, T. & Zhang, Y. Effects of acupuncture on the outcome of tinnitus: an overview of systematic reviews.  Frontiers in Neurology. 2022;18(13): 1061431.  doi:10.3389/fneur.2022.1061431. 

10. Raleigh Capitol (2025). Are “Sleigh Bells” Ringing in Your Ears? Solutions for Tinnitus; [reviewed 13 May 2025]. Available from: https://www.raleighcapitolent.com/blog/solutions-for-ringing-in-your-ears