Can Acupuncture Help With Hearing Loss?

Different procedures have been used worldwide to treat issues such as anxiety, pain, and even headaches…but did you know acupuncture has been attempted for hearing loss? Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, originating from traditional Chinese medicine and making its way West. Approximately 1.5% of people in the United States have utilized acupuncture for one condition or another, often in conjunction with another type of treatment. 

What is Acupuncture?

Essentially, acupuncture is the process by which thin needles are inserted into the skin at specific pressure points. Seeing as how the goal is to stimulate specific nerves, it only makes sense that this treatment method is tried for different causes of hearing loss. However, hearing loss doesn’t always result from misfiring or loss of electrical signals; often, it can be caused by changes in pressure, trauma to the ear, or even a buildup of earwax. 

Acupuncture and Treatment

In countries like China, acupuncture is a frequently used treatment method; with many randomized trials advocating for the usage of alternative therapies such as this, it seems a relevant way to manage symptoms of hearing loss. 

However, there is a limited number of outcomes with these trials that have enough of an evidence base to support them fully. Typically, it seems as though many of the trials with acupuncture and hearing loss combine alternative therapy with more traditional medicine and approaches, which still gives plentiful benefits to the patient. 

One particular study from the Journal of Speech and Hearing Disorders discovered that acupuncture didn’t have any effect one way or the other when used on patients with hearing loss. This can be discouraging news, especially since people turn to alternative methods such as acupuncture when hearing loss becomes a reality. 

This isn’t to say that acupuncture isn’t practical; quite the opposite, especially for those dealing with chronic and debilitating pain. However, when it comes to hearing loss, acupuncture might not be so effective in improving hearing capabilities. On the other hand, anxiety might be able to be treated with acupuncture, which is essential within the realm of conditions like tinnitus, which can be made worse with anxiousness. 

Hearing Loss Solutions

With exceptional services from the Hearing Associates of Las Vegas, you can turn some of these other treatments into a reality. Not only do our specialists have the time and ability to talk with you regarding your medical history and determine a proper treatment plan for hearing loss, but numerous other resources are available at your disposal – and those that work for hearing loss. 

Please speak with your physician if you are concerned about hearing loss or any disruption to your everyday hearing (such as ringing or buzzing sounds). Once correctly diagnosed, specialists at Hearing Associates of Las Vegas can help you treat your symptoms and get you back to living life!