Cervical tinnitus

Can cervical and neck problems cause tinnitus and ringing in ears?

Cervical and neck problems can sometimes contribute to tinnitus, a condition commonly described as ringing, buzzing, or whooshing in the ears. This type of tinnitus, often referred to as cervical tinnitus, may be triggered by issues such as neck strain, poor posture, muscle tension, or injuries to the cervical spine.

In this article, we explore how cervical problems can contribute to tinnitus and what treatment options are available.

Can tight neck muscles cause ear problems?

Yes, tight neck muscles can contribute to ear problems, including tinnitus, ear fullness, and even mild dizziness. Muscle tension in the neck and upper shoulders can affect the surrounding nerves and blood vessels connected to the auditory system. This tension may lead to ringing in the ears, pressure sensations, or discomfort that feels like it's coming from within the ear. Addressing neck strain through posture correction, stretching, or physical therapy can often relieve these symptoms and improve overall ear health.

What Is cervical tinnitus?

Cervical tinnitus refers to a form of tinnitus that’s believed to be linked to issues in the cervical spine (neck region). Unlike traditional tinnitus, which often stems from hearing loss or ear damage, cervical tinnitus is connected to neck or musculoskeletal dysfunction.

What does cervical tinnitus sound like?

Cervical tinnitus may sound similar to traditional tinnitus, such as ringing, buzzing, clicking, or whooshing in one or both ears. However, the key difference is that the sound may change with neck movement, jaw clenching, or even posture shifts. In some cases, people report that the tinnitus is more noticeable when turning the head or after long periods of poor posture.

Symptoms of cervical tinnitus

Cervical tinnitus can present in different ways depending on the individual, but common symptoms include:

Ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sounds in one or both ears, either constant or intermittent
Tinnitus that worsens with neck movement, head rotation, or changes in posture
A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear without an external cause
Neck stiffness, jaw tension, or upper back discomfort
Occasional dizziness or balance issues, especially with head movement

If you’re experiencing tinnitus along with neck pain, jaw discomfort, or muscle tension, the issue may be musculoskeletal in nature.

How Is cervical tinnitus diagnosed?

Diagnosing cervical tinnitus can be complex, as it often overlaps with other forms of tinnitus and may not show up on standard hearing tests. A thorough evaluation typically involves:

Medical History Review – A healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, when they occur, and whether they’re triggered by neck movement, posture changes, or jaw activity.
Hearing Assessment – A comprehensive hearing test, such as the one offered at Amplifon Canada, helps rule out hearing loss or inner ear issues as a cause of the tinnitus.
Physical Examination – Your doctor or specialist may assess the neck, jaw, and spine for signs of tension, misalignment, or restricted movement that could be contributing to symptoms.
Imaging or Referrals (if needed) – In some cases, imaging such as an MRI or CT scan may be recommended, or you may be referred to a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or ENT specialist for further evaluation.

Since cervical tinnitus is often related to musculoskeletal issues, diagnosis is typically based on a combination of hearing health insights and physical findings. Identifying the root cause is key to finding an effective treatment approach.

How Is cervical tinnitus treated?

While there’s no universal cure, many people experience relief through a combination of approaches, including:

Hearing Assessments & Sound Therapy: Even if your tinnitus is neck-related, a hearing test can help rule out other issues. At Amplifon Canada, we offer free hearing evaluations and personalized tinnitus support.
Physical Therapy or Chiropractic Care: Targeted therapy can help relieve muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, improve posture, and reduce strain that contributes to tinnitus.
Stress Management: Since stress often worsens tinnitus, relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or massage therapy may provide symptom relief.
Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT): Sound therapy combined with counseling can help your brain adapt to and reduce the perception of tinnitus over time.

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Hearing loss is the partial or total inability to hear. It’s a common problem that can affect anyone. Also referred to as hearing impairment or deafness, hearing loss covers a wide range of categories and symptoms which can be caused by a variety of factors and circumstances.

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Cervical collar for tinnitus relief

Some people find relief using a cervical collar for tinnitus, especially if their symptoms are linked to neck instability or muscle strain. The collar helps support the cervical spine and reduce movement that could be triggering the tinnitus. However, this should be used under professional guidance to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific condition. For some, the best cervical collar for tinnitus will be one that supports the neck without restricting natural motion.

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Find out, with the help of our experts, how to prevent ear problems like cervical tinnitus.

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Cervical tinnitus & other conditions

Cervical spondylosis and tinnitus

Cervical spondylosis, a type of age-related degeneration in the spine, may contribute to tinnitus in some cases. As vertebrae and discs wear down, they can irritate surrounding nerves or muscles, leading to cervical spondylosis tinnitus. Symptoms may improve with physical therapy, posture correction, or a customized treatment plan.

Cervical dystonia and tinnitus

Cervical dystonia, a neurological condition causing involuntary neck muscle contractions, can sometimes contribute to tinnitus. The muscle tension and postural challenges associated with dystonia may increase pressure on cervical nerves, indirectly affecting hearing. Managing muscle spasms and improving neck alignment may help alleviate associated ear symptoms.

Cervical somatic tinnitus

Cervical somatic tinnitus is a form of tinnitus influenced by musculoskeletal factors — particularly involving the neck and jaw. It often fluctuates with physical movement and may respond well to physiotherapy, TMJ treatment, or manual therapies. Unlike tinnitus caused by inner ear damage, somatic tinnitus may be reversible if the root cause is addressed.

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FAQs about cervical tinnitus

Can Tight Neck Muscles Cause Ear Problems?

Yes, tight neck muscles can contribute to ear problems, including tinnitus, ear fullness, and even mild dizziness. Muscle tension in the neck and upper shoulders can affect the surrounding nerves and blood vessels connected to the auditory system. This tension may lead to ringing in the ears, pressure sensations, or discomfort that feels like it's coming from within the ear. Addressing neck strain through posture correction, stretching, or physical therapy can often relieve these symptoms and improve overall ear health.

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