Determine medically first that you actually have tinnitus. Sometimes, tinnitus can be mistaken for more easily treatable ear problems such as a build up or blockage of wax in the ears, allergies or sinus trouble have an MD make that diagnosis.

I will determine the "type" of tinnitus you have from an oriental perspective. The type of tinnitus  you have is important and crucial as the type depends on what type treatments and managements may or may not help you. For example, if you have had perfectly fine hearing and then have a sudden loud noise onset that will not go away, your tinnitus is considered to be an "excess." A "deficiency" tinnitus is described as developing very slowly or gradual with a more low ringing sound. The age of the patient and how long they have suffered with tinnitus can also be a factor in how they will respond to various treatments.

Be ready to be open minded and not rushed when you come for your acupuncture session. Acupuncture sessions given in connection with herb therapy have been shown to be most beneficial. Be prepared to know that during the sessions that the acupuncture needles will be placed into the body in various locations.  Most people find acupuncture enjoyable and relaxing.

4 Know that acupuncture and chinese herbs do not always totally cure the tinnitus problem. Sometimes there is complete relief from the tinnitus, sometimes there is "some" significant relief and other times the patients do not respond to the treatments. Relief of the tinnitus will vary with each patient and their level of discomfort.  I ask patients to commit to four sessions initially before any improvement may be experienced.  If my client has not improved within those sessions, they may not respond to acupuncture treatment.