What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a frustrating hearing problem that involves a ringing or buzzing in the ear. While not a life-threatening condition, constantly hearing noises coming from inside your head can be torture for many people. It interferes with your ability to hear sounds and communicate with others, and may make it difficult to work or sleep.
Tinnitus may be caused by exposure to loud noises, ear blockages, or aging. Research also suggests that the cause of tinnitus may involve the upper cervical spine.
Signs and Symptoms of Tinnitus
People with tinnitus will hear a persistent noise that comes from inside their own heads, rather than an external source. This noise may be a whistling sound, a high-pitched whine, or a buzzing. Sometimes the sound will be intermittent, but for some sufferers, it is a constant drone 24 hours a day.
The noise may be accompanied by pressure or a feeling of fullness in the ear. Tinnitus sufferers have trouble hearing because the ringing in their ears may drown out sounds in the environment.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Tinnitus
The uppermost vertebrae of the spine, going from the base of the skull and down the neck, are prone to injury. The neck is a vulnerable area, and any accident or jolt to the head and neck can cause the vertebrae to become misaligned. When the vertebrae are misaligned, it causes inflammation and swelling that can impact the function of the eustachian tubes.
The eustachian tubes are very small canals that run from the ear to the throat. They help regulate drainage and air pressure. They are located right near the upper cervical spine, so when this area becomes inflamed it can compress the tubes and cause blockages. These blockages cause the craniofacial nerves to malfunction in transmitting information to the brain, which causes the symptoms of tinnitus.
How Our Tinnitus Treatment Works
To alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus, our doctor treats the upper cervical spine to reduce inflammation, unblock the eustachian tubes, and restore the proper functioning of the craniofacial nerves. Dr. Bejian Shamloo is our upper cervical specialist who uses a combination of advanced technology and manual techniques to treat the spine.
Dr. Shamloo begins an examination with diagnostic imaging tools to obtain 3D scans of your unique anatomy. This allows him to calculate the exact location and angle of any misalignments. He can then apply gentle, safe manipulations at precise points to realign the spine. Once realigned, the body will be able to facilitate its natural healing processes to reduce inflammation and heal damage.
If tinnitus is making life difficult for you, please call us for an appointment. Dr. Shamloo treats patients in Knoxville, Alcoa, Maryville, Farragut, Clinton, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Lenoir City, Karns, Hardin Valley, Powell, Halls, and Fountain City in Tennessee, as well as the surrounding areas.
