New research targets accessible treatment for tinnitus

A new study has unveiled a promising sound therapy for tinnitus that could reduce the perceived loudness of the condition – using only everyday devices like smartphones and headphones. This development could one day benefit millions of people living with persistent ringing, buzzing or hissing in the ears.  

The research, from Newcastle University and led by Dr Ekaterina Yukhnovich, adds to a growing body of emerging science that aims to move beyond management and towards potentially reducing the tinnitus sound itself. 

What the Research Shows 

The study tested a novel form of sound modulation therapy delivered entirely online. Adults with chronic tinnitus listened to modified sounds, tailored to disrupt synchronised neural activity believed to underpin tinnitus perception, for one hour a day over six weeks. 

In the trial, tinnitus loudness ratings were significantly quieter after listening to the active sound stimulus compared with a perceptually similar placebo version, and the quieting effect persisted for at least three weeks after treatment ended.  

Although the average reduction in loudness (around 10 %) was modest, some participants experienced larger benefits, and the research team sees clear potential for refining and scaling the approach to make it more effective.  

A Step Beyond Current Therapies 

Dr Will Sedley, consultant neurologist and Newcastle researcher, emphasised that unlike most existing treatments (which focus on coping and habituation) this method aims to alter how the brain perceives the tinnitus. He explained that the technique works by continually varying the sound you’re hearing so that brain cells respond at different times, rather than firing all, which may make the tinnitus percept less intrusive.  

A key advantage of the therapy is its potential for widespread delivery without specialist equipment, making it considerably more accessible than many current clinical interventions. The team hopes that, once optimised, the therapy could be made available globally through apps or software platforms that integrate with music, podcasts or other audio that people already engage with daily.  

In essence, listening to the sounds you love could one day directly help retrain your brain to make tinnitus quieter. 

Why This Matters Now 

Currently, the most effective evidence-based treatments are designed correct hearing loss or reduce the intrusiveness of the sound, rather than reduce the volume of the phantom sound itself. These therapies, including hearing aids, cognitive behavioural therapy or counselling, do work but can be difficult or time-consuming to access.  

A stronger evidence base for accessible sound therapy techniques could help more people who are waiting for other treatments, or who are looking for alternatives. 

The research builds on the UK’s long-standing development in tinnitus research, including previous investigations by Dr Sedley into auditory brain mechanisms linked to tinnitus and contributions to advancing understanding of the condition. If you’re interested in reading more, you can check out this update from Will and this article from Newcastle-based researcher Abishek Umashankar.  

Will also serves as Chair of the Professional Advisory Committee at Tinnitus UK, bringing a strong research perspective to our work, and representing this exciting area of tinnitus research.  

Real Stories: Research Through the Eyes of Participants 

The trial also included testimony from participants such as 30-year-old Max Barker, who has lived with tinnitus for four years. Max described the emotional toll of waking up to a constant high-pitched sound, with the unpredictability of symptoms making the condition especially challenging. Despite having developed individual coping strategies, Max says the possibility of a new, accessible treatment is a real source of hope. 

What if I need help now? 

While this research represents an exciting development, tinnitus remains a highly individual and often complex condition. If you are affected by tinnitus, we encourage you to explore the range of services available through Tinnitus UK, including: 

• Support and information resources on understanding and managing tinnitus. 
• Helpline and email support to help answer questions and signpost to appropriate services. 
• Peer-to-peer support where people can connect with others facing similar experiences. 
• Practical tools and self-management advice, including guidance on sound enrichment and stress management. 

Looking Ahead 

Researchers are now seeking further funding to refine the sound therapy, improve its effects and potentially expand access through user-friendly technologies. If successful, this could represent a significant shift in the tinnitus treatment landscape. 

Experts caution that more clinical trials are needed to validate findings, understand how the therapy compares with existing approaches, and determine how best to integrate it into routine care. 

For now, the study offers renewed optimism and a clear reminder of the importance of ongoing research, and of the progress your support for Tinnitus UK makes possible – in research, or in community care.  

From all of us here, a huge thank you, and stay tuned for further updates! 

The full paper by Dr Yukhnovich and her colleagues is available for free here.