Ear barotrauma is the most common injury in diving. Learn to equalize with Valsalva, Toynbee and when you should not dive.
Pressure equalization in the ears is one of the most recurring concerns among divers. Many experience difficulty opening the Eustachian tubes, whether due to a deviated septum, mucus, or unfavorable anatomy. Divers share everything from home techniques for training the opening to questions about whether surgery for nasal turbinates or chronic rhinitis might be a permanent impediment to diving.
Middle ear barotrauma is the most frequent injury in recreational diving. The pressure differential equivalent to just 3.5 meters of water column can cause a perforated eardrum. The most widely used equalization techniques are the Valsalva maneuver and the Toynbee maneuver, with preventive equalization recommended every 30–50 cm of descent. Diving with a cold or active allergy is one of the most documented causes of barotrauma, and many specialist physicians consider it a temporary absolute contraindication.