Myofascial pain and dysfunction as predictors of tinnitus in adults: a case-control study

To evaluate the association of symptoms of myofascial pain and dysfunction with the presence of tinnitus in adults.

A case-control study involving 80 cases presenting tinnitus and 160 controls without this condition was designed. Sociodemographic variables as well as symptoms of myofascial pain and dysfunction measured using the Brux-Screen, psychopathological symptoms obtained from the Symptom Checklist Revised (SCL-90-R) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), stressful life events score quantified through the Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS) and presence of tinnitus supported by items of the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) were collected. A directed acyclic graphs (DAG) analysis was performed to identify potential relationships, and multivariable logistic regression used to assess associations.

Exposure to high levels of noise (OR = 2.29; 95% CI: 1.14-4.60, P = 0.020), plugged ear canals (OR = 2.99; 95% CI: 1.28-7.03, P = 0.012), tense face-and-neck muscles without clenching (OR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.24-4.43, P = 0.008) and symptoms of depression (OR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.41-3.33, P < 0.001) significantly increased the risk of suffering from tinnitus.

Face-and-neck muscles and mental health assessments may be warranted in individuals with tinnitus. Further studies are necessary to clarify causal mechanisms and evaluate potential management strategies.