The new research project “Manual Medicine for Somatosensory Tinnitus (MANITU),” will be conducted at the Department of Physical Medicine at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin under the direction of Dr. Anett Reißhauer and Dr. Max Liebl. For many years, patients suffering from somatosensory tinnitus (ST) have been examined and treated using manual medicine at this department. ST refers to a pathological ear noise caused by physical factors such as cervical spine dysfunctions, muscle tension, misalignments, or other musculoskeletal issues. ST can be identified through detailed manual medical diagnostics. This involves examining whether active or passive movements, isometric muscle tension, palpations, or similar maneuvers alter the ear noise – for example, in its volume, quality, or pitch. However, a comprehensive overview of specific triggers for these modulations is not yet available.

MANITU aims to investigate whether targeted manual medical treatment can effectively alleviate the complaints of patients with somatosensory tinnitus (ST). Specifically, it evaluates whether tinnitus distress can be reduced and whether the potentially underlying complaints in the head, neck, and shoulder areas can be improved.

The treatment in the MANITU study includes an individually tailored medical assessment and therapy plan, accompanied by a series of manual therapy sessions. If necessary, heat therapy will be integrated into the treatment in accordance with medical guidelines.

The study is conducted according to strict scientific standards: It is randomized, meaning that participants – individuals suffering from somatosensory tinnitus – will be randomly assigned to groups. Control groups (known as waiting list groups) will be included to better evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment in comparison. The care is provided exclusively by highly qualified physicians and physiotherapists with expertise in manual medicine and therapy.

MANITU will run until the end of 2028. The first examinations are due to begin in June 2026. The next update on this will follow in December 2026.