Manipulation under anesthesia

Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) or fibrosis release procedures is a noninvasive procedure to treat chronic pain which has been unmanageable by other methods. MUA is designed not only to relieve pain, but also to break up excessive scar tissue that builds up after orthopedic surgery. Because scar tissue can impede the movement of soft tissue and joints, MUA is valuable in re-establishing optimal range of motion. The patient normally goes through a series of examinations, including imaging tests and laboratory work, prior to MUA. These tests are necessary to identify the targeted area and to ensure the patient will benefit from the procedure. MUA must be performed by medical professionals who have studied MUA and received certification in the technique, but a number of different types of medical professionals may perform MUA.

MUA is a non-invasive procedure that seems to help regain mobility. This involves putting the patient under sedation, and then performing a combination of controlled joint mobilization/manipulation and myofascial release techniques. MUA is used by osteopathic/orthopedic physicians, chiropractors and MUA certified physicians. It aims to break up adhesions (scar tissue) on and around spinal joints as the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and pelvic regions, or extremity joints as the knee, shoulder and hip. A restricted range of motion in these joints can be painful and limit function. Failed attempts at other standard conservative treatment methods (i.e., manipulation, physical therapy, or medication) over a sufficient time-frame is one of the principal patient qualifiers.