Acupuncture promotes the body’s natural healing process. You may experience more than 50% reduction in symptoms with just 12 treatments. Continued sessions can lead to even greater improvement.
Myoclonus syndrome is a neurological condition characterized by sudden, brief, involuntary muscle jerks or spasms, often triggered by external stimuli or internal events. Inner ear myoclonus, specifically middle ear myoclonus (MEM), refers to involuntary, rhythmic contractions or spasms of the middle ear muscles, primarily the tensor tympani and stapedius muscles, resulting in clicking, buzzing, or fluttering sounds in the ear. These sounds are often described as objective tinnitus, meaning they can be heard by both the patient and the examiner.
MEM is thought to be caused by abnormal nerve impulses or nerve damage in the middle ear, leading to muscle spasms. It can be associated with various conditions, including viral infections (like COVID-19), middle ear infections, and even psychological factors like anxiety.
The primary symptom of MEM is the perception of rhythmic, clicking, buzzing, or fluttering sounds in the ear. These sounds can be quite disruptive and may affect sleep.
- Clicking: A common symptom, often attributed to the tensor tympani muscle.
- Fluttering: A sensation of rapid, repetitive movements in the ear.
- Thumping/Thrumming: A deeper, more pronounced sound, sometimes described as drum-like.
- Buzzing: Another sound often associated with the stapedius muscle.
- Other sounds: Tapping, crackling, bubbling, whooshing, and hissing are also reported.
- Rhythmic tinnitus: The sounds are often rhythmic and can be persistent or intermittent.
- Ear fullness or pressure: A feeling of blockage or pressure in the ear.
- Mild vertigo or dizziness: A sensation of spinning or unsteadiness.
- Pain in or around the ear: Can range from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pain.
- Distorted or muffled hearing: May occur with prolonged or severe cases.
- Hyperacusis: Increased sensitivity to sounds.
- Numbness or burning sensations: Can occur around the ear, cheek, or jaw.
- Headaches: May be experienced in conjunction with other symptoms.
- Ear fullness or pressure: A feeling of blockage or pressure in the ear.
- Clicking: A common symptom, often attributed to the tensor tympani muscle.
Treatments are available to manage its symptoms, which often include tinnitus and clicking/fluttering sounds. Treatments range from medications like muscle relaxants and anti-seizure drugs to surgical interventions like tenotomy, and even Botox injections.
Moreover, acupuncture may offer significant benefit as a primary treatment choice.
