Somatosensory Tinnitus

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Manual Therapy (MT), Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT), and their combination in adults with somatosensory tinnitus. Sixty-five participants will be randomly assigned to one of three parallel groups. Primary and secondary outcomes include tinnitus severity, tinnitus-related disability, neck disability, cervical range of motion, audiological measures, pressure pain threshold, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. Outcomes will be assessed before treatment and immediately after the six-week intervention period.

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) and subjective tinnitus at both morphological and functional levels. Current literature suggests that somatosensory inputs from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory muscles can modulate auditory pathways, a phenomenon known as Somatosensory Tinnitus. However, the specific role of TMJ bone morphology and critical neighboring structures, such as the Petrotympanic Fissure (PTF), in this interaction remains unclear. In this clinical study, patients with tinnitus will undergo a comprehensive evaluation including Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to quantitatively analyze condylar morphology and osteoarthritic changes. Additionally, audiological tests will be performed to assess the functional state of the auditory system. This multidisciplinary approach aims to clarify the biological link between TMD and tinnitus, potentially improving diagnostic protocols and highlighting the importance of TMJ stabilization in tinnitus management.