Recruitment

Recruitment is the abnormal perception of loudness growth.  In other words those with recruitment will perceive sounds to grow in volume a lot faster than those without recruitment.  It is typically present in those with hearing loss due to the reduced dynamic range of their hearing – from their threshold to very loud is a shorter distance than for those with lower thresholds.  For a musician this may manifest as moderate increases in sound suddenly causing discomfort¹ .

For more information make an appointment or email an audiologist now.

1. Chasin, M. (Ed.) (2009). Hearing Loss in Musicians. San Diego:Plural Publishing