Comparison of tinnitus masking and tinnitus retraining therapy.

Two methods for treating tinnitus are compared. Tinnitus masking has been used for over 25 years, and although this method is used in clinics around the world, there are many misconceptions regarding the proper protocol for its clinical application. Tinnitus retraining therapy has been used clinically for over 12 years and has received considerable international attention. Although these methods are distinctive in their basic approach to tinnitus management, certain aspects of treatment appear similar. These aspects of treatment have created considerableconfusion and controversy, especially regarding the use of "sound therapy" as a basic component of treatment. It is the objective of this article to clarify the major differences that exist between these two forms of treatment.