Learning About Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) of the Shoulder

Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) of the shoulder is a procedure done by a doctor to treat some shoulder issues.

It’s commonly used to treat a problem called frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the shoulder becomes painful, stiff, and hard to move. It's most common in middle-aged people, women, and people with diabetes or thyroid disorder. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about your risk.

MUA of the shoulder can relieve pain and break up scar tissue. This can help the shoulder move more freely. Your doctor will usually suggest MUA of the shoulder only when other treatments, like physical therapy and corticosteroid injections, haven’t worked.

You'll get medicine to make you fall asleep or to block feeling in the shoulder. You won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Then the doctor will move the tight shoulder in different ways. This helps stretch and break up the scar tissue.

The process usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. In some cases, it needs to be done again on another day.

Right afterward, you will feel sore. Your care team will give you pain medicine. You can usually go home the same day, once you recover from the anesthesia.

For 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure, you will have pain and swelling. It may help to:

• Put ice or a cold pack on your shoulder for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours (when you are awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Sleep in a recliner or propped up in bed so your shoulder is above your heart.
• Take over-the-counter medicines for pain. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Make sure to do any stretches and exercises that you're instructed to do at home.

Risks like fractures, shoulder dislocation, and damage to surrounding tissue are rare but possible after the procedure. Other risks include ongoing shoulder pain and stiffness and possibly needing another surgery. You may also have negative side effects from the anesthesia.