Which maneuver is often used to relieve ear pressure during flights?

The Valsalva maneuver is a technique commonly used to equalize pressure in the ears, especially during changes in altitude, such as during flights. This maneuver involves taking a deep breath, closing the mouth, pinching the nose shut, and then gently exhaling against the closed airway. The resulting increase in intrathoracic pressure forces air into the Eustachian tubes, helping to equalize the pressure in the middle ear with the external environment.

This is particularly important during flight ascents and descents when the atmospheric pressure changes can lead to discomfort or pain in the ears due to pressure differentials. The Valsalva maneuver is effective and easy for most people to perform, making it a popular choice for travelers experiencing ear discomfort during flights.

While the Frenzel, Politzer, and Toynbee maneuvers are also techniques used to equalize ear pressure, they are either less commonly practiced or more specialized in their application. For instance, the Toynbee maneuver involves swallowing while pinching the nose, which can be effective but may be less intuitive than the Valsalva. The Frenzel maneuver is often used by divers rather than air travelers and requires a specific technique to compress the ear. The Politzer