Is manipulation under anesthesia safe? What should I know about it?
Chiropractor
Manipulation under anesthesia, also known as MUA, is a type of manipulative technique that is non invasive. It is performed by a chiropractor and meant to offer relief from chronic pain that has been responsive to other forms of non surgical care. MUA focuses on breaking up internal scar tissue that is leftover from an injury or surgery, and as a result, restores movement while reducing pain. MUA can be used to treat the back, neck, shoulders, and joints as well as muscle spasms.
When a patient is undergoing MUA, they are sedated. An example of the amount of sedation used might be the “twilight” state which is common in the sedation of a patient undergoing a colonoscopy or tooth extraction. This type of sedation allows the chiropractor to adjust the joints and bones, or stretch and align the muscles without any resistance to the treatment. Less force is applied during the procedure making it painless and often effective.
MUA is performed by trained and certified doctors who work in chiropractic medicine, rehabilitation, osteopathy, or orthopedics. It is considered to be a subspecialty which means it may not be available in every clinical office.
Benefits of MUA
Many patients experiencing back, neck, or shoulder pain respond well to manipulation, exercise, massage, and rehabilitation. Some of these patients will find that their relief is limited to a few days or weeks. In this case MUA could be an option. Benefits of manipulation under anesthesia include:
- It is safer than surgery
- It is cost effective
- It is covered by most insurance plans
- It is covered by most workers compensation
Is MUA Right for You
Before scheduling you for MUA treatment, a chiropractic doctor should assess your medical history, symptoms, and previous chiropractic care. A physical evaluation and neurological exam may be conducted to confirm a diagnosis. The following tests might also be ordered:
- MRI or CT scan
- X-ray
- Ultrasound
- EKG
- Nerve conduction velocity test
- Pregnancy test
- Blood test
Patients who have been diagnosed with the following might be suited to MUA:
- Chronic sprain or strain
- Chronic disc pain
- Acute muscle spasms
- Failed back surgery
- Fibrous adhesions
- Loss of movement or motion
- Chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Pinched nerve
MUA is not recommended for:
- Acute inflammatory gout
- Cancer
- Inflammatory arthritis
- Bone fractures
- Obesity
- Bone infection
- Severe osteoporosis
- Compression of the spinal cord
The aforementioned is not exhaustive. There are other conditions that could be treated with MUA, as well as those that should not be treated with it. Patients who are taking certain types of medication or cannot be sedated will also not be candidates for MUA.
How MUA is Performed
Manipulation under sedation is typically performed in a hospital. The anesthesia is given by an anesthesiologist. The patient will be sedated, but not unconscious. Various anesthesia could be given depending on the patient’s circumstances. Once the patient is sedated, the chiropractic doctor, like a chiropractor in Glen Burnie, MD, will begin to employ different techniques on the symptomatic part of the body. The entire procedure takes between 15 and 40 minutes. The patient slowly regains awareness and will be monitored for a brief period of time. He or she can return home on the same day. Typically noticeable improvements in range of motion and pain is immediately noticed. Localized muscle soreness is common and may be treated with herbal balms, ice, heat, or OTC medication. Physical therapy or cryotherapy might also be recommended.
In general, a patient will need between 2 and 4 MUA treatments. These are often done on consecutive days rather than at separate intervals.
Contact Mid-Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic for more information about chiropractic care.
Annapolis Chiropractor FAQs
Our Annapolis, MD chiropractor knows that many of our patients are unsure about what chiropractic treatment entails and the exact benefits that it can offer. That’s why we’ve put together some of the most common questions we hear from new and returning patients. If you have questions about your specific needs and how chiropractic care can help you, do not hesitate to reach out with your questions.
Our team has been helping our patients in Maryland find relief from pain for over a decade, and we provide same day appointments and 24/7 live call answering in order to make scheduling an appointment easy for you. Contact Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic today to schedule your treatment.
What Conditions Can A Chiropractor Treat?
Our experienced Annapolis chiropractor can help with a range of issues including back pain, neck pain, tension headaches, herniated discs, and joint discomfort. Chiropractic care is also commonly used to manage pain from auto accidents, sports injuries, and repetitive motion strain. Each case is different, but our goal is always to help reduce discomfort and improve movement through targeted care.
What Should I Expect During My First Appointment?
Your first visit usually includes a full health review, a discussion about your symptoms, and a physical exam. Depending on your needs, we may perform light movement assessments or recommend imaging. From there, we create a plan tailored to your situation. Our team works hard to make the process as comfortable and straightforward as possible.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The amount of sessions that you will need depends on the nature and severity of your issue. Some people only need a few visits to get back on track, while others benefit from ongoing sessions spaced out over weeks or months. We’ll talk through your goals and develop a plan that fits your needs and schedule. Our approach is always centered on helping you feel better as efficiently as possible.
How Can I Prepare For A Chiropractic Session?
Wear comfortable clothes that allow easy movement. Try to arrive a few minutes early to fill out paperwork or update your information. If it’s your first visit, bring details about your medical history and any recent injuries. It helps to be ready to talk about your symptoms, when they started, and what makes them better or worse.
What Are Common Chiropractic Techniques?
We use a variety of methods based on the issue at hand. This may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, muscle stretching, or mobilization exercises. Some sessions also include electrical stimulation or therapeutic ultrasound, depending on the plan we develop. Our Maryland chiropractor will explain the different techniques that he or she will use before starting treatment.
If you’re dealing with pain or limited movement or pain, don’t wait to address the issue. Our team of experienced and dedicated chiropractors is here to help guide you through the process with care and clarity. Contact the trusted team at Mid Atlantic Spinal Rehab & Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward feeling better.