Can Chiropractic Care Help with Tinnitus?

April 3, 2025

Can Chiropractic Care Help with Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a condition characterised by persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears. It affects a significant portion of the population and can range from mild to debilitating. While tinnitus itself is not a disease, it is often a symptom of an underlying issue such as hearing loss, ear infections, jaw dysfunction (TMJ), or cervical spine problems.

Can Chiropractic Care Help?

There is no definitive cure for tinnitus, and treatment success varies based on the underlying cause. However, some research suggests that chiropractic care may be beneficial in cases where cervical misalignments, muscle tension, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction contribute to tinnitus symptoms.

A study published in The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics examined the role of chiropractic care in managing tinnitus and suggested that some patients experienced symptom relief, particularly when their tinnitus was linked to neck tension or musculoskeletal issues (Hulse et al., 2000).

Chiropractic Approach to Tinnitus

If tinnitus is associated with cervical spine dysfunction or TMJ issues, chiropractic care may focus on:

Postural assessment and spinal adjustments to reduce tension in the upper cervical spine.
Soft tissue therapy targeting neck and jaw muscles to relieve tightness.
TMJ-specific techniques to improve jaw alignment and function.
Lifestyle recommendations such as ergonomic corrections, relaxation techniques, and exercises to support long-term relief.

Understanding the Complexities of Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a complex condition that can have multiple causes, including neurological, vascular, and auditory system dysfunctions. While chiropractic care may assist in specific cases, it is important to approach treatment with realistic expectations and consider a multidisciplinary approach. In some cases, collaboration with audiologists, ENT specialists, physiotherapists or acupuncturists may be beneficial.

Additional Considerations

Tinnitus caused by hearing loss or inner ear damage is unlikely to be improved by chiropractic care alone.
If tinnitus is accompanied by dizziness, severe hearing loss, or neurological symptoms, further medical evaluation is recommended.
Lifestyle factors such as stress, poor posture, and muscle tension may play a role in symptom severity and should be addressed.

Conclusion

While chiropractic care is not a cure for tinnitus, it may be a helpful component of treatment for individuals whose symptoms are linked to neck tension, spinal misalignments, or TMJ dysfunction. A thorough assessment can help determine whether chiropractic care is a suitable option for managing your symptoms.

If you experience persistent tinnitus and would like to explore conservative treatment options, consulting with a healthcare professional is the best way to create a tailored care plan.