Does it matter what is trained? A randomized controlled trial evaluating the specificity of alpha/delta ratio neurofeedback in reducing tinnitus symptoms

Abstract Previous studies showed that alpha/delta ratio neurofeedback was effective in reducing unpleasant psychological, emotional, and perceptual consequences of tinnitus. The main goal the present study to investigate, whether specific combination enhancing alpha- delta frequency band activity necessary, or merely sufficient, obtain a positive treatment outcome regarding tinnitus distress intensity. A second research aim assess relative contribution neurofeedback-related non-specific general nonspecific effects treatment. In three-arm, randomized controlled trial, 94 chronic patients were randomly assigned one three conditions: (n = 31), beta/theta 28) non-neurofeedback minimal intervention 35). Neurofeedback participants underwent ten sessions over four-week period. Outcome measures collected pre-, mid-, post-intervention at three-months follow-up. Tinnitus Handicap Inventory Magnitude Index used as primary for EEG data recorded during training supplemented outcomes. Since repeated measures, analyses two-level mixed model approach including by-subject random (random intercept). For Inventory, results no interaction effect. analysis significant time × group interaction, indicating both reported reduced Analysis consistent pattern course training. Compared neurofeedback, an elevated response. Conversely, beta theta ratio, more inconsistent, with clear indication superiority neurofeedback. question this piece was, demonstrated specificity alleviation perceived Results sufficient but importantly not necessary achieve on Index, when compared Still, suggests trend towards Because this, it may be too premature discard Recommendations future are outlined.