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A Protocol for the Administration of Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback Training

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Head, Neck, and Eye Movements That Modulate Tinnitus.

Richard Simmons¹, Christina Dambra, Edward Lobarinas

¹Department of Neurology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York.

Seminars in Hearing

|February 3, 2009

Summary

Somatic tinnitus, influenced by movements of the head and neck, involves complex interactions between auditory and sensory-motor systems. These findings highlight the central nervous system

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Auditory Science
Sensory Integration

Background:

Functional brain imaging suggests tinnitus involves central nervous system (CNS) auditory and nonauditory centers.
Somatic tinnitus, modulated by movements of the head, neck, jaw, shoulders, and eyes, supports the role of nonauditory centers in tinnitus.
Maneuvers often increase tinnitus loudness or pitch.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the prevalence and impact of somatic tinnitus.
To explore the multimodal interactions between auditory and sensory-motor systems in tinnitus patients.

Main Methods:

Patients with tinnitus performed various somatic maneuvers (e.g., head, neck, jaw movements).
Changes in tinnitus loudness and pitch were recorded.
Prevalence of somatic tinnitus and modulation effects were analyzed.

Main Results:

Most tinnitus patients reported modest changes in loudness or pitch with somatic maneuvers.
A subset of patients experienced significant modulation (2-3 fold) of tinnitus.
Somatic tinnitus is highly prevalent, indicating complex sensory-motor interactions.

Conclusions:

Somatic tinnitus demonstrates significant multimodal interactions between the auditory pathway and sensory-motor systems.
The central nervous system plays a crucial role in tinnitus generation and regulation.
Understanding these interactions may offer new therapeutic targets for tinnitus management.