When sinuses are congested, swelling can narrow the Eustachian tubes that balance pressure in your middle ear. The result is ear fullness, popping, and discomfort. A light, step-by-step massage that follows natural drainage pathways—paired with simple decongestion habits—can help many people feel better.

Safety first

Use very light pressure (think “skin-stretch,” not deep rubbing). Stop if you feel pain or dizziness. Avoid risky trends like ear candling. Seek medical care if you have severe pain, fever, drainage from the ear, sudden hearing loss, or symptoms lasting more than a few weeks.

5-minute ear & sinus massage (easy routine)

1. Warm-up: Apply a warm (not hot) compress over your cheeks and temples for 30–60 seconds to loosen tissues and thin mucus.
2. Neck “drain openers”: Place fingertips just below each ear on the side of your neck. Make tiny, gentle circles, then glide downward toward the collarbone 5–8 times per side.
3. Forehead to temples: Lightly sweep from the center of your forehead out to the temples, then trace in front of the ears and down the side of the neck to the collarbone.
4. Cheek sweep: Starting next to the nose, glide along the cheekbones toward the ears, then down the neck. Keep pressure feather-light.
5. Around the ear: Make small circles in front of and behind the ear, then guide slow strokes down the jawline and neck to the collarbone.

Repeat the whole sequence 1–3 times, breathing slowly. Many people like to follow with a saline rinse to keep things moving.

Add-ons that help the tubes open

Swallow, yawn, or chew gum throughout the day. Try the Toynbee maneuver (pinch your nose and swallow). If needed, use a very gentle Valsalva (pinch your nose and breathe out lightly—stop if it hurts). Stay hydrated, take steamy showers, and sleep with your head slightly elevated. For allergy-related pressure, talk with your clinician about intranasal steroid sprays or short-term decongestant guidance.

When massage alone isn’t enough

If your ear pressure keeps returning, consider overall muscle tension, posture, and stress. Balanced bodywork can complement sinus care. Explore options like a relaxing Swedish massage to reduce head-neck tightness, targeted relief with deep tissue massage in Tukwila for stubborn neck muscles that can tug around the jaw and ear, or soothing heat from a hot stone massage to encourage circulation. You can also review our full menu on the services page and choose a session that fits your needs.

Quick FAQ

Can massage fix clogged ears from sinus pressure?
Light facial and neck drainage techniques can ease fullness for many people, especially when combined with warm compresses and hydration.

Where should I massage?
Forehead to temples, across the cheekbones toward the ears, around the ears, then always finish with light strokes down the side of the neck to the collarbone.

How often should I do it?
One to three short sessions daily during flare-ups. Consistency matters more than pressure.

What’s the safest way to “pop” my ears?
Start with swallowing, yawning, or chewing. Try Toynbee next. Use only a gentle Valsalva and stop if it causes pain.

Do saline rinses help?
Yes—saline can reduce nasal swelling and wash out thick mucus, supporting better drainage.

When should I see a clinician?
If symptoms persist, are severe, one-sided with fever, or you notice hearing changes, get a professional evaluation.

By keeping pressure gentle, following the drainage path, and pairing massage with smart decongestion habits, you’ll give your Eustachian tubes the best chance to equalize and your ears the relief they need.