[Distraction and relaxation training in acute tinnitus : effects of a complement to otorhinolaryngological treatment].
HNO 2010;
58:488-96. [PMID:
19859670 DOI:
10.1007/s00106-009-2019-8]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
We examined whether training conceptualized as a complement to standard medical treatment (ST) for acute tinnitus to promote patients' capacity to distract attention from their tinnitus and to relax (distraction and relaxation training) has a positive effect on tinnitus-specific distress (tinnitus loudness, tinnitus-related distress and disability), as well as on general well-being.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Study participants comprised 29 patients with tinnitus of maximum 4 weeks' standing (first lifetime tinnitus episode) who were randomized to ST (rheological therapy) or advanced standard treatment (AST) (rheological therapy complemented by distraction and relaxation training).
RESULTS
Tinnitus-specific distress was reduced to a significantly greater extent in the EST group as compared to ST, especially in patients with a striking psychopathology. The improvement in general well-being was comparable in both groups.
CONCLUSION
In acute tinnitus, distraction and relaxation training should be conducted as a complement to standard medical treatment, especially in high-risk patients demonstrating abnormal psychopathological status, since treatment results can be improved in this way.
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