Clinical Presentation of Tinnitus and a Review of, and Evidence Base for, Tinnitus Applications
A lack of evidence base presently exists, to validate the efficacy of mobile technology applications (apps) for tinnitus—highlighting a need for research. We reviewed tinnitus apps available via two popular smartphone operating systems: the Apple iOS and Google Android platforms. A March (2016) search using platforms available in the Austral-Asia region yielded over 260 tinnitus-related apps. Search parameters required apps to employ an English language format and feature the keyword “tinnitus” in the app name or description. Those apps retained for consideration (257) enabled 4 primary themes to emerge, featuring apps offering: (1) sound therapy approaches, (2) information, tips or assessment, (3) health promotion or alternative approaches, and (4) miscellaneous, non-therapeutic apps. Themes enabled further organization of related app characteristics into sub-groups. Numerous apps (44.3%) presented sound menus, ordered into a virtual library of presumably beneficial listening options. To place tinnitus apps in the context of current therapeutic considerations, an overview of the clinical presentation of tinnitus, and approaches aimed at mediating the perception of tinnitus and affective responses, precedes the review. We suggest future research addresses: the relative benefit(s) of one app over another, efficacy of tinnitus apps as a therapeutic option, long-term outcomes, and generalizability across populations.