Tinnitus Reduction Framework
Reduce tinnitus by ignoring it
The Tinnitus Reduction Framework is based on the idea that tinnitus can be reduced by ignoring the ringing sound and strengthening other neurons in the brain. This framework involves identifying the frequency of the tinnitus sound and then playing low and high tones to strengthen other neurons.
- The brain is plastic and can be rewired
- Tinnitus is often caused by damage to the high-frequency hearing cells
- Paying attention to tinnitus can make it worse
- Strengthening other neurons can reduce tinnitus
- Ignoring tinnitus is a key component of reducing it
- Identify the frequency of the tinnitus soundThe patient must identify the frequency of their tinnitus sound through a tone matching process. This involves playing low, medium, and high tones and having the patient match the sound to the tone that sounds most similar.Pro tipIt's essential to teach the patient about octave confusion to ensure accurate tone matchingWarningIf the patient has severe hearing loss, this step may be challenging
- Play low and high tones to strengthen other neuronsOnce the frequency of the tinnitus sound is identified, low and high tones are played to strengthen other neurons in the brain. This helps to reduce the importance of the neurons responsible for the tinnitus sound.Pro tipThe tones should be played at a comfortable volume to avoid causing discomfort or painWarningIf the patient experiences any discomfort or pain during this step, they should stop immediately
- Ignore the tinnitus soundThe patient must make a conscious effort to ignore the tinnitus sound and not pay attention to it. This can be challenging, but it's essential for reducing the sound.Pro tipThe patient can use distraction techniques, such as listening to music or engaging in a hobby, to help ignore the tinnitus soundWarningIf the patient finds it difficult to ignore the tinnitus sound, they should seek support from a healthcare professional
- Reward other neuronsThe patient should reward other neurons in the brain by engaging in activities that stimulate them. This can include listening to music, reading, or engaging in hobbies.Pro tipThe patient can use positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards or praise, to motivate themselves to engage in activities that stimulate other neuronsWarningIf the patient experiences any negative side effects or discomfort during this step, they should stop immediately
A patient with chronic tinnitus used the Tinnitus Reduction Framework to reduce their tinnitus sound. They identified the frequency of their tinnitus sound and played low and high tones to strengthen other neurons. They also made a conscious effort to ignore the tinnitus sound and reward other neurons in the brain.
A patient with severe hearing loss used the Tinnitus Reduction Framework to reduce their tinnitus sound. They identified the frequency of their tinnitus sound and played low and high tones to strengthen other neurons. However, they found it challenging to ignore the tinnitus sound due to their severe hearing loss.
Dr. Michael Kilgard developed this framework through his research on tinnitus and brain rewiring. He found that people who paid attention to their tinnitus were actually making it worse, and that by ignoring it and strengthening other neurons, they could reduce the sound.