EMG biofeedback in the treatment of tinnitus: An experimental evaluation

Abstract

Twenty-six tinnitus patients received either EMG biofeedback with counterdemand instructions, EMG biofeedback with neutral demand instructions or no treatment. Assessment was conducted on self-report measures of the distress associated with tinnitus, the loudness, annoyance and awareness of tinnitus, sleep-onset difficulties, depression and anxiety. Audiological assessment of tinnitus was also conducted and EMG levels were measured (the latter only in the two treatment groups). No significant treatment effects were found on any of the measures. There was a significant decrease in the ratings of tinnitus awareness over the assessment occasions, but the degree of change was equivalent for treated and untreated groups. The results do not support the assertion that EMG biofeedback is an effective treatment for tinnitus. It is recommended that future research be directed towards the evaluation of broader treatment approaches.