Final answer:
The Valsalva maneuver is used to aid in equalizing ear pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Valsalva maneuver is normally used to aid in equalizing ear pressure. When performing the Valsalva maneuver, the person closes their glottis and exhales forcefully against a closed airway. This increases the pressure in the middle ear, helping to equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the environment, which can alleviate the discomfort caused by changes in altitude, such as during airplane takeoff or landing.