The MISHA Knee System: Implantable Shock Absorber for Your Knees

Let me guess: you’re tired of being told your only option is knee replacement surgery. You’ve iced your knee, tried the creams, maybe even popped more ibuprofen than you’d like to admit. Still, your knee pain won’t quit. If that sounds like you, then you might be curious about a newer option that’s been gaining some attention: the MISHA Knee System.

As a physical therapist who’s worked with countless people preparing for or healing from total knee replacement surgery, I always keep an eye on emerging treatments. And this one? It’s kind of exciting.

What Is the MISHA Knee System?

The MISHA Knee System is an implantable shock absorber designed to reduce the pressure on your knee joint. It’s not a replacement. It doesn’t involve removing bone. Instead, it’s inserted alongside your natural anatomy to help cushion your joint as you move. Think of it as a shock-absorbing assistant, like suspension for your knee.

This device is usually implanted in people who have mild to moderate medial compartment osteoarthritis (that’s the inner side of your knee). It’s designed to relieve pressure and pain in the knee while helping you keep your original joint intact.

How Does the MISHA Knee System Work?

Your knee is built to take a beating. But over time, especially with osteoarthritis, the protective cartilage starts to wear down. That’s when bones begin rubbing against each other, which results in pain.

The MISHA Knee System helps by absorbing some of the stress and impact that would otherwise be absorbed by your damaged joint surfaces. During the procedure, the implant is positioned inside your knee to take on that extra load. As a result, it helps reduce pain, improves function, and may even delay the need for knee replacement surgery.

Who’s a Good Fit for the MISHA Knee System?

Not everyone qualifies. The MISHA Knee System is typically recommended for people who:

• Are experiencing pain in just one compartment of the knee (usually the inner side)
• Have tried conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, and injections without success
• Are not quite ready or are actively trying to delay knee replacement surgery

Basically, if your knee pain is affecting your quality of life, but you still have a decent amount of cartilage left, this could be worth exploring.

The Benefits of the MISHA Knee System

Less Invasive Than Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement surgery is a major procedure with a significant recovery time. The MISHA Knee System, on the other hand, is implanted using a less invasive approach. Since it doesn’t require removing bone, it keeps your future options open.

Shorter Recovery Timeline

People who receive the MISHA Knee System often bounce back faster than those who go through a full joint replacement. That means less downtime and quicker return to your everyday life.

Can Delay the Need for Surgery

Implantable shock absorbers like the MISHA Knee System have been shown to delay the need for knee replacement surgery by an average of two years. That's two more years of walking, moving, and living without major surgery.

Maintains Natural Joint Structure

Because the MISHA Knee System is designed to work with your existing anatomy, it preserves the natural movement and structure of your knee. That can make your day-to-day activities feel more comfortable compared to more invasive procedures.

Reversible Option

Unlike total knee replacement, the MISHA Knee System is reversible. If it doesn’t work for you or you eventually need another procedure, you still have options down the road.

Things to Consider Before Choosing the MISHA Knee System

Like any procedure, the MISHA Knee System isn’t perfect. There are things to think about, like the risk of infection, device wear, or failure over time. And since it’s relatively new, we’re still collecting long-term data about how effective it is over five to ten years.

Not all insurances cover the MISHA Knee System yet, and you may need to speak with your provider about eligibility and reimbursement. You’ll also want to make sure you’re working with a skilled surgeon who has experience with this kind of implant.

And yes, even though it’s less invasive than knee replacement surgery, this is still a surgical procedure. It requires downtime, some time off your feet, and dedication to rehab afterward.

Physical Therapy Still Plays a Big Role

No matter what kind of knee procedure you go through, whether it’s an implantable shock absorber or total knee replacement surgery, movement is medicine.

Physical therapy helps you rebuild strength, improve flexibility, and reduce stiffness after the procedure. Even if you’re just trying to delay surgery, working with a physical therapist can help you stay active and reduce your pain levels right now.

For some people, a strong prehab program can delay the need for any kind of surgery altogether. And if you do go through with the MISHA Knee System procedure, having strong muscles and flexible joints going in can lead to better results coming out.

Bottom Line: What Should You Do?

If your knee pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, it’s time to explore your options. The MISHA Knee System might be the in-between step that gives you more time with your natural knee. It’s not for everyone, but it could be the solution that helps you move better now and avoid or delay knee replacement surgery.

And don’t forget: whether you choose surgery, an implant, or non-invasive options, what you do before and after matters just as much. Prehab, post-op movement, and consistent care will always be your best friends. Good luck on your knee journey!

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