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Frenzel manoeuvre

How to equalise ear pressure

Last update on 12/02/2025

Ear equalisation is a crucial skill for anyone who enjoys diving, flying, or engaging in any activity where pressure changes rapidly. One of the most effective methods for equalising ear pressure is the Frenzel manoeuvre. This technique is especially popular among divers, as it provides a safe and reliable way to balance the pressure in the ears during descents and ascents.

What is ear equalisation and why is it important?

Ear equalisation refers to the process of balancing the pressure between the middle ear and the external environment. When diving or flying, the pressure around you changes as you ascend or descend. If the pressure in your middle ear isn’t equalised with the external pressure, you may experience discomfort, pain, or even damage to your ear structures.

Equalising the ears is essential to avoid barotrauma (pressure injury to the ear) and to maintain comfort throughout your activities. If you don’t equalise properly, you may encounter difficulties, such as ear pain after diving or other related problems.

What is the Frenzel Manoeuvre?

The Frenzel manoeuvre is a technique used to equalise ear pressure. Unlike the Valsalva manoeuvre, which involves blowing air out while pinching your nose, the Frenzel manoeuvre uses the tongue to pressurise the middle ear. This method is often preferred by divers because it requires less force, making it gentler on the ears.

In the Frenzel manoeuvre, the tongue acts as a piston to move air into the Eustachian tubes, thereby equalising the pressure in the middle ear. This technique allows for better control and precision, especially in deeper dives, where the Valsalva manoeuvre may not be as effective.

How to perform the Frenzel Manoeuvre

Pinch your nose

Close your nostrils tightly using your fingers to prevent air from escaping through your nose.

Close your mouth

Keep your mouth closed to ensure that the air is directed into your Eustachian tubes.

Move your tongue

With your mouth closed, push the back of your tongue upwards towards the roof of your mouth. The pressure from your tongue will force air into the Eustachian tubes.

Repeat as necessary

Continue equalising regularly during your descent or ascent. It’s recommended to equalise at least every metre or so during your dive.

The Frenzel manoeuvre is particularly useful for divers and freedivers as it allows for better control of the pressure in your ears without requiring excessive force.

Benefits of the Frenzel Manoeuvre

The Frenzel manoeuvre offers several advantages, especially when compared to other equalisation techniques:

Less force required: unlike the Valsalva manoeuvre, which requires you to forcefully exhale against a closed airway, the Frenzel manoeuvre relies on the movement of the tongue. This makes it a gentler technique, reducing the risk of damaging the Eustachian tubes.
Greater control: by using your tongue to equalise the pressure, the Frenzel manoeuvre offers greater control, especially in deeper dives where more significant pressure changes occur.
More efficient: the Frenzel technique is particularly effective for divers as it can be performed without the need for heavy exhalation, which can be tiring during long or deep dives.

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Frenzel vs. Valsalva: what’s the difference?

Both the Valsalva manoeuvre and the Frenzel manoeuvre are used to equalise ear pressure, but they differ in how they achieve this goal:

Valsalva manoeuvre: involves pinching the nose and blowing air out through the closed nostrils. This forces air into the middle ear to equalise the pressure. While this is a widely used technique, it can be difficult to perform at deeper depths and may cause discomfort if not done correctly.
Frenzel manoeuvre: instead of blowing air out, the Frenzel technique uses the tongue to push air into the Eustachian tubes. This is a gentler and more controlled method, making it ideal for deep-water divers or those experiencing difficulty with the Valsalva technique.

Common issues people face when equalising ear pressure

Failing to equalise frequently enough

Issue: Pressure doubles in the first 10 metres below the surface. This means that you need to equalise frequently. It is recommended to equalise at least every metre of your descent. The faster you descend, the more frequently you should equalise.
Solution: Make equalisation a habit and perform it regularly to avoid pressure build-up.

Trying to equalise too late

Issue: If you feel strong pressure or pain in your ears, it means you have left equalising too late, and it could become impossible to equalise.
Solution: Always equalise ahead of every pressure change. Proactive equalisation helps avoid discomfort and ear injury.

Trying to equalise with the wrong head position

Issue: If your head is raised while equalising, it can increase the pressure on your Eustachian tubes.
Solution: Keep your head in line with your body by tucking it slightly in. This will reduce pressure and make equalisation easier.

Not equalising both ears

Issue: Failing to equalise both ears can result in uneven pressure, causing pain and discomfort.
Solution: Ensure both ears are equalised during your descent. If one ear stops equalising, stop immediately and return to the surface.

Straining while equalising

Issue: Over-straining while equalising can create excessive pressure in your ears, potentially damaging the Eustachian tubes.
Solution: Equalise gently without force. If you feel strain, stop and try a different technique.

Unable to equalise

Issue: If you’ve tried different methods but still cannot equalise, you may be at risk of injury.
Solution: If you are unable to equalise, stop your descent and return to the surface. Do not force the process.

Unable to equalise head first

Issue: When starting out, descending head first can be difficult for equalisation.
Solution: Try descending feet first to make equalisation easier. As you gain experience, you can gradually attempt head-first descents.

Equalising ear pressure is essential for a safe and enjoyable diving experience. The Frenzel manoeuvre offers a gentle and controlled way to manage pressure changes, making it ideal for divers and anyone involved in activities with rapid pressure variations. By understanding common issues and learning the correct techniques, you can avoid discomfort and ensure your ear health during dives or flights.

If you continue to experience problems with equalisation, it’s important to consult a professional to ensure that you’re performing the manoeuvres correctly and safely.

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