Frenzel Maneuver
The preferred method for equalizing the ears is with the Frenzel Maneuver. This method
involves using the tongue as a piston and pressurizing a small area of trapped air to
equalize the Eustachian tubes. This technique involves pinching off the nose, closing the
throat with the epiglottis (as if about to strain lifting a heavy weight), then actively
moving the soft palate to produce the distinct “popping” noise that is produced when
equalizing the inner air space. A good indication to tell if this method is being preformed
properly is by watching to see if the nose inflates around the fingers pinching the
nostrils and by feeling the “Adams apple” on the throat move up and down. Yo should
also be able to place your free hand on your chest and NOT feel any movement. Unlike
the Valsalve method which requires the use of multiple muscle groups in the chest, the
Frenzel only uses the back of the tongue to press against the soft palate to compress the
air in the nasopharynx. This air is directly connected to the Eustachian tubes so each
time you put pressure on the soft palate and create a positive air pressure in the
nasopharynx, it also pressurizes the Eustachian tubes and equalizes your ears. Since this
function of equalization only deals with a small, isolated air space and is created by the
piston action of the tongue which is a strong muscle, the Frenzel maneuver is effective
to much greater depths.