The relationship of tinnitus to pain is examined and a theoretical case made out for the possible use of acupuncture in the treatment of tinnitus. A double-blind cross-over controlled trial is described. The use of Visual Analogue Scales (V.A.S.) is discussed in this context. 35 per cent of patients described some benefit from the active treatment only, although we were unable to demonstrate this objectively. Statistical analysis of the group as a whole revealed no significant differences between placebo and active acupuncture treatment.

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A group of 14 patients with unilateral tinnitus were selected because of the constant nature of their tinnitus, and its resistance to all other forms of therapy. They were subjected to hypnosis in three forms in random order. The induction of a trance state alone formed the control arm of the trial. Compared to this were the effects of 'ego boosting' and active suppression of tinnitus whilst in a trance state. One of the 14 patients showed a highly significant response to the latter treatment as judged by visual analogue scales. Five of the 14 patients (36%) found the induction of a hypnotic state of value. This seemed to help them tolerate their tinnitus better, although its loudness and quality were unaltered.

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