Customized web-based sound therapy for tinnitus.

INTRODUCTION Traditional masking efforts have presented broadband noises, most typically white noise. Targeted (customized) sound therapies have been introduced to overcome the limitations of traditional maskers. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of a web-based delivery of customized sound therapy in reducing tinnitus loudness and increasing the residual inhibition. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-two subjects matched their tinnitus frequency using a web-based protocol. A customized Harmonic Sound Therapy file was produced by the web-based software and downloaded by the patient onto an MP3 player. The subjects listened to the sound file for one hour. RESULTS Tinnitus loudness mean was 6.0 ± 2.3 standard deviation (SD) which decreased to 3.3 ± 1.9 SD after one hour of sound therapy. Some reduction in loudness was seen in 81%, while 72% experienced a reduction of 25% or more. Tinnitus annoyance decreased from an average of 6.1 ± 2.6 SD to 3.1 ± 2.0 SD. Median duration of residual inhibition was 32.5 minutes, with an average of 75 minutes ± 132 SD. CONCLUSION Customized sound therapy can be delivered via the internet. Harmonic Sound Therapy is effective in reducing the loudness and annoyance of tinnitus.