How Chiropractic Care May Alleviate Tinnitus Symptoms

Understanding Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears when there is no external sound source. It is not a disease itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. The sounds experienced by individuals with tinnitus can vary and may include ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other similar noises. Tinnitus can be temporary or chronic and can affect one or both ears.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head when there is no external source of that sound. The sound can manifest in various forms, such as:

1. Ringing: A persistent ringing sound in the ears.
2. Buzzing: A buzzing or humming noise.
3. Hissing: A hissing or sizzling sound.
4. Clicking: Clicking sounds within the ears.
5. Roaring: A sensation of a loud roar or whooshing sound.

In addition to the perceived sounds, individuals with tinnitus may experience accompanying symptoms, such as:

1. Hearing loss: Tinnitus is often associated with some degree of hearing impairment, especially in cases where the underlying cause is related to damage to the auditory system.
2. Difficulty concentrating: Tinnitus can make it challenging to focus on tasks, particularly in quiet environments.
3. Sleep disturbances: The noise associated with tinnitus can interfere with sleep, leading to difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep.
4. Emotional distress: Tinnitus can cause anxiety, stress, frustration, or depression, especially if it significantly impacts a person’s of life quality.

Causes

The causes of tinnitus are diverse and can include:

1. Injuries or trauma: trauma to the spine such as MVA or pitfalls can lead to spinal subluxation and affect the spinal nerve function. For instance, whiplash that injured the cervical spine and occiput can result in tinnitus. Besides, upper lumbar subluxation which results in poor bowel movement can eventually cause recurrent hearing issues such as tinnitus.
2. Age-related: Tinnitus can just be a byproduct of aging.
3. Ear infections: Infections affecting the ear can cause tinnitus.
4. Certain medications: Some medications such as oral contraceptive pills (OCP) and those with ototoxic effects, can contribute to tinnitus.
5. Medical conditions: Conditions such as Meniere’s disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and high blood pressure may be associated with tinnitus.

How does chiropractic care help with tinnitus?

Chiropractic is a profession that focuses on nerve function. By correcting the “subluxation” of the vertebrae that causes “neuritis”, many of the systemic problems can be solved, including hearing issues such as tinnitus. The connection between chiropractic treatment and improvement in hearing issues, particularly through adjustments in the cervical and upper thoracic region, has been well documented. One remarkable case involves D.D. Palmer, the founder of chiropractic, who reportedly cured his janitor, Harvey Lillard, of deafness.

In 1895, Lillard had lost his hearing 17 years earlier while working in a stooped position, and something in his back “gave,” rendering him deaf. Despite consulting various doctors from different fields, none were able to treat him for his deafness. One day, while examining Lillard’s spine, Palmer identified a misaligned prominent vertebra in the upper dorsal region. Wondering if this misalignment was the cause of Lillard’s hearing loss, Palmer obtained Lillard’s permission, placed him on a bench, covered the misaligned vertebra with his hands, and thrust into the man’s spine. Remarkably, after 17 years of deafness, Lillard got up, walked to the open window, and turned to Palmer with a smile—he could hear again. This case is often cited as a historical anecdote in the chiropractic community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tinnitus is a perception of noise or ringing in the ears without an external source, and it is often a symptom of an underlying issue. It can be temporary or chronic, affecting one or both ears, with sounds like ringing, buzzing, or hissing. Causes of tinnitus include injuries, age-related factors, infections, medications, and medical conditions. Chiropractic, known for addressing nerve function, has shown effectiveness in treating hearing issues. Notably, D.D. Palmer’s case of curing his janitor’s deafness in 1895 highlights the potential benefits of chiropractic adjustments in addressing systemic problems, including hearing-related conditions like tinnitus.