Equalization of the ears is also a result of
shrinking air volume within the middle ear
space due to the increasing pressure as you
descend. In order to avoid damage to the
flexible membrane (ear drum) separating the
middle ear and outer ear, this air space must be
equalized to match the increasing outside
pressure. One of the most important factors for
successful equalization is to equalize often,
before you feel pain! This can start on the
surface before the dive begins and be preformed
every meter or so. The most important thing to
remember is to equalize before you begin to feel any pressure on your inner ear. By
equalizing often and at regular intervals you will avoid the pressure building to a point
where you are no longer able to equalize and the dive must be aborted.
Methods for equalizing this inner ear air space include: (a) manipulating muscles in the
jaw and throat, (b) the Valsalva Maneuver, and (c) the Frenzel Maneuver. Manipulating
the jaw and throat muscles to equalize is the most simple method but it only tends to
work for individuals with large and flexible Eustachian tubes. Although these muscles
can be exercised to improve the odds of this method working it is usually only a case
where it either works for you or not. It is also typical that people who are able to
equalize using this method are unaware of what they are doing and it just seems to come
naturally. Common techniques for this method include thrusting the jaw down and