Manipulation Under Anesthesia

What Is Manipulation Under Anesthesia?

Manipulation Under Anesthesia (also known as MUA or fibrosis release procedures) is a noninvasive chronic pain treatment method. In this multidisciplinary procedure, the patient is placed under anesthesia before a qualified chiropractor performs manual manipulation to break up scar tissue and relieve chronic pain. This method can be applied under general anesthesia, mild sedation, or local anesthetic. Though less common than traditional manual manipulation, MUA is not an untested or experimental procedure. Some versions of this technique have existed for decades, but recent advances in anesthesiology have made the procedure more safe and effective than ever.

How Do You Prepare For Manipulation Under Anesthesia?

Specific preparations for Manipulation Under Anesthesia may vary depending on the anatomical area being focused on and the type of anesthesia being administered. You may be asked to fast before the procedure, not eating or drinking anything after midnight the day prior to your appointment. You may be asked to temporarily stop taking some medications for a period of time before the procedure. Someone should accompany you to your MUA appointment, as you will not be able to drive after the procedure is performed.

Why Is MUA Performed?

Manipulation Under Anesthesia can be performed to correct a number of painful conditions, including:

• Chronic musculoskeletal pain
• Herniated discs
• Joint dysfunction
• Nerve compression
• Chronic pain following orthopedic surgery
• Failed spinal surgery
• Muscle spasms
• Myofascial pain syndrome

Manipulation under anesthesia can be a good option when chronic pain conditions result in ordinary manual manipulation causing the patient too much pain to be an effective option. Many patients suffer chronic pain from scar tissue that builds up around joints following an injury or surgery, and MUA can be used to break up this scar tissue when the joints are too painful to move without anesthesia. Anesthesia also allows the muscles to relax, opening up ranges of motion that would otherwise not be possible.

What Can You Expect During Manipulation Under Anesthesia?

You will arrive for your MUA appointment along with someone who can drive you home afterward. You then be prepared for surgery by a board-certified anesthesiologist. Your level of sedation may vary depending on the type and severity of injury being treated. You may be given general anesthesia, or conscious sedation that allows you to remain awake during the procedure. The MUA procedure itself typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.

What Is The Followup And Recovery Like For MUA?

Most patients will experience reduced pain levels immediately following Manipulation Under Anesthesia. There may be some soreness similar to how you would feel following vigorous exercise, but this should fade in a short time. Your doctor will prescribe a post-op plan to build upon the success of MUA. Recommendations may include massage, stretches, and exercises to continue your recovery. You will have follow-up appointments to assess the results of Manipulation Under Anesthesia and make the best decisions for your continued recovery. Depending on your injuries, additional MUA sessions may be necessary.

What Are The Potential Costs For Manipulation Under Anesthesia?

Manipulation Under Anesthesia is more cost-effective than surgery and covered under many insurance plans. Talk to your insurance provider to find out whether or not you are covered.

What Are The Potential Risks For Manipulation Under Anesthesia?

MUA is a very safe procedure. There is a very small risk of the patient having a negative reaction to anesthesia, but we always perform a thorough exam and review of your medical history to minimize this possibility,. There is also a slim chance that MUA will not successfully improve your condition, and may make things worse.

Are There Other Related Procedures?

We also offer physical therapy and massage therapy to help our patients overcome their injuries and chronic pain.