What type of injury could be avoided by proper equalization?

Proper equalization is crucial in diving to manage the pressure changes experienced at different depths. When divers descend, the external water pressure increases, and if the pressure inside the dive's air spaces, such as the ears and sinuses, is not equalized, it can lead to barotrauma. This injury occurs when the pressure difference becomes too great, causing damage to tissues.

By employing proper equalization techniques, divers can balance the internal and external pressures, thereby preventing barotrauma. This ensures that the air spaces in the body can accommodate the increasing pressure without injury. Other injuries like decompression sickness, nitrogen narcosis, and hypercapnia are not directly related to failure in equalization, but rather arise from other diving-related factors such as ascent rates, nitrogen absorption, and carbon dioxide buildup, respectively. Therefore, understanding and practicing effective equalization techniques is critical for maintaining the safety and health of divers during their underwater experiences.