Myofascial trigger points: another way of modulating tinnitus

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pain Medicine
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Tinnitus is a complex symptom with diverse potential causes, often co-occurring in patients.
• Tinnitus perception can be influenced by various external stimuli.
• Myofascial trigger points (MTPs) are associated with myofascial pain syndrome and can cause referred pain upon stimulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the modulation of tinnitus through the stimulation of myofascial trigger points (MTPs).
• To determine the correlation between tinnitus and the presence of MTPs.
• To assess the efficacy of MTP compression in alleviating tinnitus symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A study was conducted on patients experiencing tinnitus and MTPs.
• Digital compression was applied to MTPs, particularly in the head, neck, and shoulder girdle.
• Correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationship between tinnitus severity and MTP location/laterality.

Main Results:

• A significant correlation (p<0.001) was found between tinnitus and the presence of MTPs in the head, neck, and shoulder girdle.
• Tinnitus modulation was achieved in 56% of patients via MTP compression, primarily targeting the masseter muscle.
• Tinnitus severity correlated with the number of MTPs on the affected side (p<0.001), and ipsilateral MTP compression was more effective for most muscles studied.

Conclusions:

• Myofascial trigger points are significantly correlated with tinnitus.
• Compression of MTPs offers a potential therapeutic approach for tinnitus modulation, particularly in patients with a history of chronic pain.
• Targeting specific MTPs, especially ipsilaterally, can effectively reduce tinnitus symptoms.