Hi everyone,
this is my first post. Thanks for everyone contributing to this forum, there is so much to read here... Thank you.
I've got a equalization question. I did an open water course few months ago during which I had problems with equalizing my ears. Valsalva maneuver doesn't work for me, which is a bit frustrating. I was seeking for alternatives and learned about VTO and Frenzel techniques. I try to learn Frenzel but knowing I have the ability to "wiggle" my ears I though I might be able to master VTO. Now, I have manual on how to exercise muscles needed for VTO but it doesn't explain how to actually perform the maneuver.
When I "try" VTO I have a "feeling" similar to the one you have when you yawn. I've read this is the way I should feel, but I don't get any "pop" in my ears. Should the "pop" be the same as in Valsalva maneuver? When should I start equalizing using this method - soon after I start to descent?
I tried few times in swimming pool which unfortunately is only 3m deep. I went head down and on few occassions didn't feel any pain on the bottom but without any freediving experience it is hard to say if I was successful or not.
If someone has some advice I would be delighted to read it. Also, I apologize for my English - it is my second language.
this is my first post. Thanks for everyone contributing to this forum, there is so much to read here... Thank you.
I've got a equalization question. I did an open water course few months ago during which I had problems with equalizing my ears. Valsalva maneuver doesn't work for me, which is a bit frustrating. I was seeking for alternatives and learned about VTO and Frenzel techniques. I try to learn Frenzel but knowing I have the ability to "wiggle" my ears I though I might be able to master VTO. Now, I have manual on how to exercise muscles needed for VTO but it doesn't explain how to actually perform the maneuver.
When I "try" VTO I have a "feeling" similar to the one you have when you yawn. I've read this is the way I should feel, but I don't get any "pop" in my ears. Should the "pop" be the same as in Valsalva maneuver? When should I start equalizing using this method - soon after I start to descent?
I tried few times in swimming pool which unfortunately is only 3m deep. I went head down and on few occassions didn't feel any pain on the bottom but without any freediving experience it is hard to say if I was successful or not.
If someone has some advice I would be delighted to read it. Also, I apologize for my English - it is my second language.
