Tinnitus, the persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects millions of people worldwide, often accompanied by chronic pain in areas surrounding the ear. A recent breakthrough study suggests that myofascial trigger point deactivation might offer significant relief for those struggling with this debilitating condition.

In 2012, a double-blind randomized clinical trial led by Carina Bezerra Rocha and Tanit Ganz Sanchez, 71 patients suffering from both tinnitus and myofascial pain syndrome participated in a novel treatment approach. The experimental group of 37 patients received 10 sessions of myofascial trigger point deactivation, while a control group of 34 patients underwent 10 sessions of a sham deactivation procedure.

The results were compelling. The experimental group experienced a significant reduction in tinnitus symptoms, with statistical significance marked at p < 0.001. This finding indicates a high likelihood that the treatment was responsible for the relief. Additionally, a strong association was found between pain relief and tinnitus reduction (p = 0.013), as well as between the side of the body with the worst tinnitus and the side with the most pain (p < 0.001).

Interestingly, many patients in both groups reported a temporary modulation (either an increase or decrease) in tinnitus upon initial muscle palpation. However, those who experienced a temporary decrease during initial palpation were more likely to see persistent relief by the end of the treatment (p = 0.002).

This study suggests that beyond standard medical and audiological evaluations, patients with tinnitus should also be assessed for:

1. Myofascial pain in the areas surrounding the ear.
2. The relationship between the laterality of pain and tinnitus.
3. Initial reduction of tinnitus during muscle palpation.

The findings highlight the potential of myofascial trigger point release to provide better outcomes for a specific subgroup of tinnitus patients, offering a new avenue of hope for those whose lives are disrupted by this chronic condition.

For tinnitus sufferers, this study opens the door to new treatment possibilities. By targeting myofascial trigger points, healthcare providers may achieve better results in alleviating the persistent and often distressing symptoms of tinnitus, making a significant impact on the quality of life for many patients.

Reference: Rocha, C. B., & Sanchez, T. G. (2012). Efficacy of myofascial trigger point deactivation for tinnitus control. Brazilian journal of otorhinolaryngology, 78, 21-26.