Skip to main content

Mobile Phone Therapy for Tinnitus


Women listening to phone with earbuds; tinnitus treatment concept

Researchers at the University of Auckland developed a mobile-phone-based therapy last year that has shown clinically significant improvements in patients with tinnitus.

The clinical trial was extremely small, with 61 patients. Half were given the new treatment and the other half used a white noise app. Those 31 people using the "new digital polytherapeutic" prototype showed "clinically significant improvements at 12 weeks, while the other group (30 people) did not."

The trial participants were instructed to aim for a minimum of two hours of total use per day for 12 weeks. 

The device uses a personalized treatment plan that "essentially rewires the brain in a way that de-emphasizes the sound of the tinnitus to a background noise that has no meaning or relevance to the listener." So, it's not a cure per se, but a treatment that can improve the lives of people who are bothered by their tinnitus.

The original research article was published in Frontiers in Neurology and the story reported in Science Daily.

According to Science Daily, "the next step will be to refine the prototype and proceed to larger local and international trials with a view to FDA approval."


Try Eargasm Earplus

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

3 Highly Effective Stress Management Methods Every Tinnitus Sufferer Can Master

The constant noise of tinnitus can make it difficult to concentrate, sleep, or relax, which in turn, amplifies stress and anxiety. Stress management, then, plays a key role in mitigating the impact of tinnitus.  Here are three highly effective methods that every tinnitus sufferer can master to manage stress and improve overall well-being. Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness meditation is a simple yet powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety, especially for those with tinnitus. The goal is to train your mind to stay in the present moment rather than fixating on the internal noise or the stress it causes. Research has shown that regular mindfulness practice can lower stress levels, increase focus, and reduce the perceived intensity of tinnitus sounds. How to Get Started   Begin by setting aside 10-15 minutes each day to sit in a quiet space. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, paying attention to the sensation of air entering and leaving your body. If your mind dr...
Post a Comment
Read more

17 Hidden Struggles Of Tinnitus-Related Insomnia No One Warns You About

Living with tinnitus can be challenging enough during the day, but when night falls, a whole new set of obstacles emerges.  Tinnitus-related insomnia is a common yet often underestimated problem that affects countless individuals. While many are aware that tinnitus can interfere with sleep, few truly understand the depth and complexity of this issue.  In this article, we'll explore 17 hidden struggles that people with tinnitus-related insomnia face – struggles that often go unmentioned but significantly impact daily life. 1. The Cruel Irony of Exhaustion and Alertness One of the most frustrating aspects of tinnitus-related insomnia is the paradoxical state of being utterly exhausted yet unable to fall asleep. As the body craves rest, the mind remains on high alert, attuned to the persistent ringing or buzzing. This cruel irony can lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration, creating a cycle that's difficult to break. 2. The Pre-Bed Anxiety Spiral For many tinnitus suffer...
Post a Comment
Read more

These Simple Words Can Change How You Think About Tinnitus Management

Living with tinnitus can be challenging, but two powerful concepts can transform your approach to managing this condition: acceptance and adaptation.  By embracing these ideas, you can develop a more positive mindset and effective strategies for coping with tinnitus.  Let's explore how these simple words can make a significant difference in your daily life. The Power of Acceptance Accepting tinnitus doesn't mean giving up or resigning yourself to a life of discomfort. Instead, it's about acknowledging your current situation and choosing to move forward productively. Here's how acceptance can change your perspective: Reduces Stress and Anxiety - Acceptance helps decrease the emotional toll of constantly fighting against tinnitus. - By letting go of the struggle, you free up mental energy for more positive pursuits. Shifts Focus - Accepting tinnitus allows you to redirect your attention to other aspects of your life. - You can start appreciating the sounds you can still e...
Post a Comment
Read more