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Methods and Application of Sound Therapy for Tinnitus Rehabilitation

Sound therapy is known to be a useful treatment option for tinnitus rehabilitation. The purpose of this paper was to review sound therapies that reported effects of tinnitus masking or tinnitus relief. Four sound therapies were reviewed: masking sound therapy, sequential sound therapy, sound therapy for Tinnitus Retraining Therapy, and notched sound therapy. Each sound therapy was reviewed for purpose of the therapy and definition, protocol of the sound therapy, effects of tinnitus relief or masking, usefulness, and limitations. Many researchers have investigated sound therapies using above mixing point sounds, at or below the mixing point sounds, and notched sounds. Most researchers reported that sound therapy is effective on tinnitus, but there is inconsistency regarding the extent of the masking or relief effects. Few researchers reported a sound therapy using sequential sounds. Although some studies have shown efficacy for these sound therapies, further studies are required for more reliable results. Although various sound therapies have identified positive effects of tinnitus relief or masking, information about selecting the appropriate rehabilitation method for each tinnitus sufferer is insufficient. However, the results of this paper will provide a basic guideline for audiologists or clinicians selecting a sound therapy for people who have tinnitus.