What Is Cervical Tinnitus?

What Is Cervical Tinnitus?

Cervical tinnitus occurs when dysfunction in the neck (cervical spine) or jaw (temporomandibular joint – TMJ) affects the nerves and muscles connected to the auditory system. This type of tinnitus can be worsened by poor posture, neck pain, muscle tightness, or jaw misalignment.

If you suffer from ringing, buzzing, or hissing in your ears, you may have tinnitus. But did you know that your neck and jaw could be the cause? When tinnitus is influenced by movements or tension in the neck or jaw, it is known as somatosensory tinnitus, or cervical tinnitus.

At PhysioFit of North Carolina, we specialize in treating neck and TMJ-related tinnitus. Our approach focuses on improving movement, reducing pain, and restoring normal mechanics in the cervical spine and jaw to help desensitize the nervous system and lower tinnitus symptoms.

How Can You Tell If Your Tinnitus Is Cervical-Related?

You may have cervical tinnitus if:
✅ Your tinnitus changes with neck or jaw movements (turning your head, clenching your teeth, or opening your mouth).
✅ You experience neck pain, stiffness, or headaches along with tinnitus.
✅ Your posture is poor, with a forward head position or rounded shoulders.
✅ You have a history of whiplash, head trauma, or TMJ issues.

How Can Neck and TMJ Dysfunction Increase Tinnitus?

The nerves and muscles in your neck and jaw are closely connected to your auditory system. When there is pain, tightness, or improper movement in these areas, it can lead to increased neural sensitivity, which may exacerbate tinnitus symptoms.

Common contributors to cervical tinnitus include:
🔹 Forward Head Posture: Places extra strain on the cervical spine and jaw, increasing nerve irritation.
🔹 Muscle Tension: Tight suboccipital, SCM (sternocleidomastoid), and jaw muscles can affect auditory nerve function.
🔹 Jaw Dysfunction (TMJ Issues): Misalignment or tension in the jaw can trigger tinnitus symptoms.
🔹 Cervical Spine Misalignment or Arthritis: Can disrupt nerve signals and blood flow to the ears.

Find Relief at PhysioFit of NC

If you suspect that your neck or jaw is contributing to your tinnitus, you don’t have to suffer in silence. By improving the function of your cervical spine and jaw, you can help desensitize the nerves responsible for your tinnitus and reduce symptoms.

At PhysioFit of North Carolina, our expert team specializes in cervical and TMJ-related tinnitus treatment. We focus on natural, non-invasive therapies to help you regain control over your symptoms and improve your quality of life.