What two areas does the Valsalva Maneuver equalize pressure between?

The Valsalva Maneuver is a technique used primarily to equalize pressure between the middle ear and the atmosphere. When performed, the maneuver involves closing the mouth, pinching the nose, and attempting to exhale gently, which helps to open the Eustachian tubes and allows air to flow into the middle ear. This action helps balance the pressure inside the middle ear with that of the external environment, preventing discomfort that can arise during changes in altitude, such as during takeoff and landing in an aircraft or while diving.

Understanding the role of the Valsalva Maneuver in maintaining pressure equilibrium is crucial for aviators and divers, as failure to do so can result in barotrauma, where differences in pressure can lead to injury to the ear structures. The other answer choices either suggest incorrect anatomical relationships or do not reflect the purpose of the maneuver accurately, which is focused specifically on the middle ear and its connection to the atmosphere.