Learning About Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) of the Knee

Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) of the knee is a procedure done by a doctor to treat severe knee stiffness.

MUA is done when scar tissue in the knee makes the knee stiff and hard to move. MUA breaks up this scar tissue and can make movement easier.

MUA of the knee is used most often as treatment after a total knee replacement. Doing the recommended exercises consistently after a knee replacement usually keeps scar tissue from forming. But if scar tissue does form, MUA may be needed. It works best within 3 months of knee replacement surgery.

You'll get medicine to make you fall asleep or to block feeling in the knee. You won’t feel any pain. Then the doctor will gently bend and straighten your knee to break up the scar tissue. This usually takes only a few minutes. As the scar tissue breaks down, the knee can move more freely.

Using MUA of the knee to treat stiffness after a total knee replacement is common. In both the short and long term, most people have less pain and can move their knee more freely after getting MUA.

The procedure doesn't take long, is not hard to perform, and doesn't involve surgery.

MUA of the knee is generally considered a safe procedure.

The most common problem is continued stiffness. In rare cases, patients suffer a fracture or have continued pain afterward.

After the procedure, your knee will likely be sore and swollen for several days.

It’s very important to continue with physical therapy exercises to prevent the stiffness from coming back. Your doctor may prescribe a machine that helps move your knee for you.

Talk to your doctor if your knee continues to be stiff and painful even after MUA.