Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA)

The Advanced Intervention for Chronic Pain & Restricted Mobility

What is MUA?

Manipulation Under Anesthesia is a non-invasive, highly specialized procedure designed for patients whose chronic pain has not responded to traditional conservative care. By utilizing "twilight" sedation, we are able to bypass the body's natural muscle guarding and pain reflexes. This allows Dr. Matthew Dorchester to perform precise stretching and manipulative maneuvers that would be impossible—and too painful—in a standard office setting.

The "Elite Mechanic" Advantage: Breaking the Cycle of Adhesions

When an injury (like whiplash or a sports collision) heals incorrectly, the body creates fibrotic adhesions—essentially "biological glue" that binds muscles, ligaments, and joint capsules together. This scar tissue is the primary cause of chronic stiffness, nerve entrapment, and a "plateau" in recovery.

MUA is the "reset button" for your biomechanics. Under sedation, we can safely:

  • Break down deep-seated scar tissue and adhesions.

  • Restore long-lost range of motion to the spine and extremities.

  • Relieve chronic nerve pressure caused by restricted joint movement.

  • Retrain the nervous system to function without defensive muscle spasms.

Is MUA Right for You?

MUA is not a first-line treatment; it is an advanced specialty for those who have reached a plateau in their healing. It is remarkably effective for:

  • Chronic Whiplash & Neck Pain (Cervical Acceleration-Deceleration)

  • Failed Back Surgery Syndrome

  • Chronic Disc Herniations & Sciatica

  • Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

  • Severe Range of Motion Restrictions

The Process: Precision and Safety

The procedure is performed in a fully accredited ambulatory surgery center with a board-certified anesthesiologist present. The actual manipulation takes approximately 15–20 minutes.

Because MUA is a medical-chiropractic hybrid procedure, it is often covered by major insurance carriers when medical necessity is documented. As a CCSP (Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician) and MUAC specialist, Dr. Dorchester provides the rigorous clinical documentation required to bridge the gap between your injury and your recovery.

Post-Procedure: The "Elite Recovery" Phase

MUA is the beginning of a new chapter, not the end. Following the procedure, you will enter a specialized 4-to-6 week rehabilitation program at At My Best Health. This phase focuses on "locking in" the new range of motion and strengthening the muscles to prevent the re-formation of adhesions.

Don't settle for a life of restricted movement. Contact us to see if you are a candidate for MUA.

[Coming Soon - Book Your MUA Consultation Button ]