In this article, discover how neck problems are related to tinnitus or a ringing in the ears. If you are experiencing ringing or other noises in one or both of your ears, visit a tinnitus specialist at Amplifon for a consultation to find the best possible tinnitus treatment option for you.
Cervical tinnitus, also known as somatic tinnitus or somatosensory tinnitus, is a specific type of tinnitus that is associated with underlying musculoskeletal or biomechanical issues, particularly related to the cervical spine (neck). This condition is characterised by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears that is triggered or worsened by movements or positions of the head and neck. The term "cervical" refers to the cervical vertebrae, which are the bones in the neck region of the spine.
Cervical tinnitus is unique due to its association with musculoskeletal issues in the neck, unlike traditional tinnitus which is often linked to inner ear or nerve-related factors. This means that movements or positions of the head and neck can impact the perception of tinnitus sounds. In contrast, traditional tinnitus is typically caused by factors like exposure to loud noises, aging, or underlying ear conditions. Understanding this distinction is important for diagnosing and addressing cervical tinnitus effectively within the context of ear health and overall well-being.
It is common for patients to experience tinnitus together with neck tensions as a result of an incorrect posture, lifting heavy loads or sudden twisting movements. This tension in the cervical spine can affect the function of the cranial nerves and trigger a ringing in the ears.
The ringing in the ears is often caused by the tension of active muscles in the cervical spine (Musculus splenio capitis and Musculus semispinalis capitis) pressing on nerves. When this occurs, the nerve groups responsible for hearing (cochlear nucleus or "snail nucleus") send signals to the brain and the brain reacts to this overstimulation of the nerve groups with hyperactivity, which can trigger the tinnitus. These symptoms can also be accompanied by a feeling of dizziness.
Another explanation for neck tensions and tinnitus could be due to poor circulation to the cranial nerves as result of a muscle tension which constricts the blood vessels responsible for supplying blood to the cranial nerve.
Yes, it can. Pulsatile tinnitus, characterised by rhythmic pulsing noises in one or both ears that synchronise with the heartbeat, may be associated with muscle tension in the neck. This type of tinnitus occurs when large blood vessels, such as the carotid artery, are constricted due to neck muscle tightness or tension.
The rhythmic throbbing or noise experienced with pulsatile tinnitus corresponds to the patient's heartbeat. When the heartbeat speeds up, the thumping or murmuring in the ears also accelerates; conversely, if the heartbeat slows down, the pulsing sound decreases in speed.
If you're experiencing persistent throbbing noises in your ears, especially synchronised with your heartbeat, it's important to seek medical advice. Healthcare professionals can assess and address potential underlying causes, including neck muscle tension or vascular issues affecting blood flow to the ears. Timely evaluation and appropriate treatment can effectively manage pulsatile tinnitus.
Tinnitus caused by neck tension or objective tinnitus generally subsides once the underlying cause has been identified and treated. Sound-enrichment aids can be used to bridge this transitional phase.
Sound enrichment therapy helps to reduce the volume of the tinnitus by stimulating the hearing steadily and emiting nature-based sounds, such as the sound of a stream or waterfall or the sound of rain, as continuously as possible. In some cases, they can even make the ringing in the ears disappear completely.
Another treatment option is a tinnitus masker, an electronic hearing aid device that generates and emits broad-band or narrow-band noise at low levels. These hearing aids produce a sound that acoustically masks the sound of the tinnitus. Discover Amplifon's product range of hearing aids and get advice, how such a hearing aid could help in your case.
To reduce the risk of developing cervical tinnitus, consider these preventive measures:
Incorporating these habits into your daily life can promote cervical spine health and help prevent cervical tinnitus. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent neck discomfort or tinnitus symptoms for personalised advice.
Are you experiencing ringing in your ears? Then come to one of Amplifon's clinics in Australia and receive advice by one of our tinnitus specialists. We will support you in choosing the best treatment method for your individual case.
