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What is Manipulation Under Anesthesia for the Shoulder?
Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) for the shoulder is a minimally invasive procedure used to restore movement and relieve stiffness, most commonly in patients with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). During the procedure, the patient is placed under anesthesia so the surgeon can gently move and stretch the shoulder joint through its full range of motion. This helps release tight joint capsules and break up scar tissue without the patient experiencing pain.
When is Manipulation Under Anesthesia Recommended?
This procedure is recommended for patients who:
- Have frozen shoulder that hasn’t improved with non-surgical treatments.
- Experience restricted motion and pain interfering with daily activities.
- Have stiffness following shoulder surgery or injury.
- Have postoperative adhesions limiting recovery progress.
- Have not responded adequately to physical therapy, medications, or injections over several months.
How is Manipulation Under Anesthesia Performed?
The procedure is done under general or regional anesthesia in an outpatient setting. Once the patient is asleep and the muscles are relaxed, the surgeon carefully moves the shoulder in different directions to stretch the capsule and break adhesions. This restores normal motion and flexibility. Sometimes, MUA is combined with arthroscopic capsular release to address persistent stiffness or scar tissue.
What to Expect during Recovery after Manipulation Under Anesthesia?
Recovery typically involves immediate physical therapy to maintain the improved motion achieved during the procedure. Patients may experience mild soreness or bruising, but most notice a significant increase in range of motion within days. Consistent therapy for several weeks is crucial to prevent stiffness from returning.
What are the Risks of Manipulation Under Anesthesia?
Potential risks include:
- Mild muscle or tendon strain
- Bruising or swelling around the shoulder
- Recurrent stiffness if therapy is delayed
- Rare fracture or rotator cuff injury
What are the Benefits of Manipulation Under Anesthesia?
Key benefits include:
- Rapid improvement in shoulder motion
- Pain relief without open surgery
- Short outpatient recovery time
- Enhanced rehabilitation results and function restoration
If you wish to be advised on the most appropriate treatment, please call to schedule an appointment or click to request an appointment online.
