What is manipulation under anesthesia?
In manipulation under anesthesia (MUA), you are sedated by an anesthesia provider so your muscles are fully relaxed. A trained clinician then moves and stretches the spine or a joint through its range of motion. It is meant for people with long-lasting pain and stiffness who haven't improved with a full course of conservative care.
At Specialty Medical Center
Dr. Justin Jwad, DC performs MUA at Universal Care Surgery Center, with an anesthesia provider giving the sedation. It is part of our chiropractic care, and the evaluation and follow-up visits take place at our offices.
Who may be a candidate
- Chronic neck or back pain and stiffness that hasn't responded to several weeks of chiropractic care, physical therapy and other treatment
- People who can't tolerate manual treatment while awake because of muscle guarding
A medical evaluation comes first. MUA isn't appropriate for everyone, and other options, such as physical therapy or care from our pain physicians, are discussed first.
Risks and recovery
MUA carries the risks of sedation and of manipulation, including soreness and, rarely, injury. Most programs include follow-up stretching and therapy in the days after the procedure to keep the motion gained. Evidence for spinal MUA is limited, and we explain what is and isn't known before you decide.
Coverage
Many health insurers limit or don't cover MUA, and coverage under auto and workers' compensation claims varies. We check your coverage before scheduling.
How to start
Call (313) 572-0810 to ask whether MUA might fit and to set up an evaluation.
