Tinnitus is linked to nerve and touch sensitivity. Acupuncture patients with this disorder will have a high response rate to the nerve''s natural response to pressure and the disorder''s sensitivity to certain points. The practice of acupuncture is based on the stimulation of certain points on the body, as well as meridians and channels. Stimulating specific points (which are determined based on the patient''s unique case) can rebalance the qi (one''s life force) and alleviate the source of the problem. It is integral in traditional Chinese medicine to treat the origin of an ailment as well as the symptoms, and TCM has several theories as to what causes tinnitus.

For example, in more temporary cases of tinnitus, high emotional strain or sudden anger can lead to a ringing in the ears. Also, diet can have an effect. Practitioners of TCM believe that excessive greasy foods or irregular eating can lead to Phlegm (a TCM term that commonly refers to a retention in body fluid), which prevents the rising of clear qi to the head (resulting in the "phantom noise" associated with tinnitus). Overworking or excessive physical strain can lead to a nerve disturbance, causing tinnitus. Lastly, trauma is a common cause of the ringing noise associated with this disorder. Western medicine is limited in its treatment options for tinnitus, no prescription drug is available for this condition. However, with careful management and the natural remedies found in traditional Chinese medicine, there is a resource waiting to be tapped.

For more information on how to naturally treat tinnitus, please contact Pacific College of Oriental Medicine at (800) 729-0941, or visit www.PacificCollege.edu