The Efficacy of Auditory Perceptual Training for Tinnitus: A Systematic Review

[andyman]

Has anyone else heard of auditory discrimination training? There are a few studies that seem to suggest that it may be helpful.

Auditory games for tinnitus benefit | NHBRU
The Efficacy of Auditory Perceptual Training for Tinnitus: A Systematic Review - Springer

Does anyone know if the software can be obtained from online?

Seems like it might be worth a shot since it doesn't seem to produce any negative side effects.

 

[Markku]

We looked with @Steve at LACE some time ago.
The web app: LACE - Listening And Communication Enhancement - Auditory Training - Aural Rehabilitation

It seemed interesting.
Some more info: Neurotone Inc. | LACE - Listening And Communication Enhancement | Aural Rehabilitation

 

[andyman]

From reading more about it, it's not clear whether it uses the same types of audio discrimination techniques that the studies talk about...

 

[Steve]

Slightly different from what I see on the study at Nottingham. I'm not sure how these games are a help for tinnitus, other than just concentration on a task. They seem to be training to distinguish different sounds rather than any specific way to zone out tinnitus.

Still, the studies will progress and it will be interesting to see how they help.

 

[Sound Wave]

I have been thinking about this topic lately - are there games which people with T could play, which would help in rewiring the brain. I found this research:

http://www.hearing.nihr.ac.uk/research/auditory-games-for-tinnitus-benefit

Another example is the game 'Plasticity' which one T sufferer has made. You can try it here: http://plasticity.szynalski.com/

Anybody else interested in this topic? Do you know more examples? I personally think gaming / virtual reality and rewiring the brain because it's neuroplasticity makes a perfect combination for T relief.

 

[Steve]

I am interested in the idea. If we can use games to train the brain to do a variety of things, why not to learn to decrease tinnitus? Using all the senses that a game engages, with a reward incentive, sounds incredibly plausible.

Although I do think the games need to advance a lot further than those used in the study. Probably not a huge amount as some of the best, most addictive games are the old, relatively basic ones.

 

[Ma78]

An old thread but I thought I'd post my recent experiences.

I have been trying this game for 2 x 20 minutes each day for the last 7 days. My scores have been increasing whilst the intrusiveness has dropped noticeably. That last word is key... I've been dealing with high pitched T for 14 months now and know my old friend very well (I've tried everything from notched therapy to ketogenic diets.)

This game does seem to be making a difference whether it's placebo or rewiring.

I do suggest people give it another look and run your own trial for a week or two. I'll post a full report in a few weeks after I've completed one month.