First implantable shock absorber now available for knee osteoarthritis patients who are not ready for joint replacement

On August 15th, 2025, Dr. Mark Galland, MD, announced he completed his first implantation of the MISHA Knee System, the first implantable shock absorber (ISA) that reduces weight on the knee joint, easing pain, preserving function, and possibly delaying joint replacement surgery.

“MISHA is a lifestyle extender. Keep doing what you love while hitting “pause” on knee replacement. MISHA is a fresh play in the OA game plan: unlocking new possibilities for active patients while maintaining a clear path for life’s adventures.” – Dr. Mark Galland

Osteoarthritis (OA) develops when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the joint bones wears down over time, causing pain and swelling during normal movement. Symptomatic knee OA is common, experienced by roughly 18 million Americans, over half of whom are of working age. However, there is a major treatment gap for adults with mild to moderate knee OA: surgeons and patients lack options when non-surgical conservative care has failed, but the patient is ineligible for, or unwilling to undergo, total knee replacement surgery.

The MISHA Knee System, implanted on the medial side of the knee during outpatient surgery, reduces peak forces by over 30% and has no device-imposed restrictions on post-operative weight-bearing or activity. Health economic analyses have determined that the MISHA Knee System offers high economic value for this younger, working-age population.

Dr. Mark Galland

Dr. Mark W. Galland is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon at OrthoNC, specializing in Sports Medicine, ACL reconstruction, and minimally invasive shoulder procedures, and the MISHA Knee System. A former U.S. Navy Chief of Orthopedic Surgery, he brings extensive experience caring for athletes and active individuals. Dr. Galland is dedicated to restoring mobility and helping patients return to the activities they love.

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What Our Patients Are Saying

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Dr. Rion is very professional and pleasant. He has been doing injections in both my knees for several years. When I have knee replacements, he will certainly be my surgeon of choice.

Sybal

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Dr. Neidecker and his staff are awesome! He takes his time with his patients and explains everything to where you can actually understand it. He also gives good advice and helpful information on your condition. Give him a try and you will be glad you did!

Patricia

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Amazing physician and certainly personable and friendly. I appreciated Dr.Galland taking time to see me and answer all of my questions. I didn’t feel rushed at all a d feel very satisfied with my service.

Shanetta

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Very attentive to my situation. Understood my concerns and made sure I accomplished all my tasks during my PT. Even suggested alternative crutches should I need them.

Pamela

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Dr.Correa is the best he has great patient bedside mannerisms, he’s always detailed in explaining the office visit, and is open to hear your concerns and or questions. Angela P.

Angela

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Austin and Kyle are fantastic coaches; knowledgeable, motivating, challenging, and fun. They’ve made this difficult healing process more bearable and have played a huge part in growing my confidence . Love these guys !

Debra

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Michael Stephens is wonderful. He always takes the time to make sure if any of my pain has changed & if the meds are still working. He truly is great at his job.

Christie

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I felt he was really great on explaining and the risk and helpful, because I really don’t care to take pain meds but I am lacking sleep so bad , he didn’t try to get me to take all day just something to help me get some much needed sleep.

Linda

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Very attentive to my situation. Understood my concerns and made sure I accomplished all my tasks during my PT. Even suggested alternative crutches should I need them.

Pamela

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In the last 4 weeks ,Dr Rion is the 4th doctor I have seen for this same problem and the only who has , in my opinion has taken the step to get to the root of my injury, which has gotten increasingly painful and unbearable over the last few weeks. GOOD JOB DOC.

Robert

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