Equalization Techniques for Scuba Divers

Equalizing the pressure in your ears during descent is a critical part of every dive. It helps protect the middle ear and sinuses from pressure-related injuries and ensures you can descend comfortably and safely. While many divers learn the Valsalva maneuver first, it is just one of several methods available.

Different techniques use different muscles and air pathways. Understanding them can give you more control and help you adapt if one method does not work in a given situation.

Valsalva Maneuver

How it works
Pinch your nose and blow gently, as if you were trying to exhale through your closed nose. This pushes air from your lungs up through the Eustachian tubes to equalize pressure in the middle ear.

When to use it
Commonly taught to new divers. Works best in shallow water or at the start of descent when pressure differences are small.

Tips
Blow gently. Do not force it. If it is not working, try another method rather than pushing harder.

Toynbee Maneuver

How it works
Pinch your nose and swallow. The swallowing action opens the Eustachian tubes and allows pressure to equalize.

When to use it
Effective during slow descents or when feeling mild pressure that does not respond to Valsalva. Also useful when congested.

Tips
Practice swallowing with your nose pinched on land. It may take a few tries to feel the effect underwater.

Frenzel Maneuver

How it works
Pinch your nose, close your throat like you are holding your breath, and use your tongue and throat muscles to push air toward your ears. The easiest way to learn the motion is to try making a “k” or “guh” sound with your mouth closed while holding your nose shut.

When to use it
Ideal for deeper dives, inverted positions, or when you need better control. Often preferred by freedivers and technical divers.

Tips
Frenzel uses a small volume of air and does not rely on the chest. Practice in a mirror by placing a hand on your throat and seeing if you can move it without exhaling.

Head Position and Descent Control

How it helps
Your body position can affect how easily your ears equalize. Small changes in posture can make a big difference.

• Tilt your head up slightly to help open the Eustachian tubes
• If one ear is slow to clear, rotate that side upward
• Use a down line when available to control descent rate
• Pre-equalize at the surface before you descend

What to Do If You Cannot Equalize

If you cannot equalize within the first few meters, do not force it. Continuing to descend without equalizing can cause serious damage to your ears.

• Ascend slightly and try again
• Try a different technique, such as Toynbee or Frenzel
• Abort the dive if you cannot clear by 10 to 15 feet
• Never dive with a cold, sinus infection, or recent air travel congestion

If equalization problems are frequent, consult a medical professional who is familiar with diving. Some anatomical issues can be treated or managed with guidance.

Personal Perspective

I have always used the Valsalva maneuver because it works reliably for me. I have never had trouble equalizing, even on fast descents or when diving in colder water. But I know that is not the case for everyone. I have seen new divers struggle to descend or call dives entirely because their ears would not clear. Having multiple techniques available can make a big difference, especially when conditions are less than ideal.