Is biofeedback effective for chronic tinnitus? An intensive study with seven subjects.

PURPOSE

This study was developed to test the hypothesis that intensive biofeedback and relaxation training may favorably affect chronic tinnitus.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Seven subjects with chronic tinnitus of moderate to severe intensity engaged in an intensive 5-month program of weekly, individual 90 minute sessions. All individuals attained a high standard of proficiency following training by a biofeedback specialist. A biofeedback unit was provided each subject for daily practice. Audiometric matching of tinnitus pitch and loudness and subjective comparisons of tinnitus loudness were conducted before and after every session.

RESULT

Audiometric evaluation showed no changes in tinnitus loudness. Nevertheless, all subjects gained satisfaction from the training. Three reported substantial psychological benefits in coping with tinnitus, two described moderate improvement, and two experienced modest gains.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the role of psychological factors in tinnitus management and indicate that biofeedback-relaxation training may be useful therapy for coping with stresses of tinnitus.