Transcranial direct current stimulation in treatment of tinnitus

Approximately 20% of general population is struggling with tinnitus. Recent theories on tinnitus are mainly based on impairments in the central auditory system that can lead to tinnitus. Recent studies have shown that tinnitus is not simply a result of the involvement of one brain region or pathway; but it can be caused by simultaneous involvement of multiple brain regions. Due to lack of information about the tinnitus etiology, site, and pathophysiology, there is still no any specific and common method for its management. In recent years, neuromodulation techniques such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been proposed for management of tinnitus. In this study, we aimed to review the role of tDCS in tinnitus management.

Based on the inclusion criteria, 7 eligible articles were selected for review. Most of them showed the beneficial effects of tDCS on tinnitus management.

The tDCS can be an effective technique for management of tinnitus. One of the main challenges for using tDCS in tinnitus patients is the differnce in stimulation parameters; therefore, more studies are recommended for obtaining its ideal parameters.