It’s been a year since I underwent the MISHA knee system procedure, and I’ve spent much of that time grappling with how to talk about it honestly. Over the past year, many of you have reached out, asking for advice or feedback because you’re considering the same surgery. I’ve hesitated to share my experience because I know how personal this decision is.
I know there are people out there who’ve had success with the MISHA knee procedure. However, my recovery has been long, painful, and frustrating, and it’s affected my running. While I’ve made progress, it’s been a very slow and often discouraging journey. I think it’s important to share this in case you are thinking about getting a device.
Visible Implant, Persistent Pain
Even now, a year later, I still deal with knee pain. I thought I wouldn’t feel pain, but I do. My pain stems from where the device was implanted, and I also feel it in the back of my knee and on the other side of my knee as well. Sometimes, I even feel it under my kneecap.
A few months ago, I had a cortisone shot, which has helped reduce the pain to a more bearable level. (And, now, I can’t wait to get it again!)
I will say that when I went to Paris with my daughter, I did not feel pain, which surprised me. However, a week later, I was walking around the city with my husband, and the pain was back.
Just so that you know, the implant itself remains visible through my skin, which is both unsettling and uncomfortable. Walking can still trigger sharp, shooting pain that travels up and down my leg.
Running with the MISHA
Running has been a mixed bag. A few weeks ago, I started to run again.
During the past year, every time I got started, I found that it set me back. So, I now ice my knee after every run and have made strength training a priority in my recovery. At this point, every day is a struggle. Some days, I feel like I can run again, but on others, I just can’t get back into it. This isn’t where I thought I would be.
Recovery Timeline vs. Reality
Before the surgery, I was told I’d be back on my feet in three months and running shortly after. That timeline turned out to be wildly optimistic. Three months in, I was feeling hopeful and even went skiing after my surgeon’s office and my PT gave me the green light. But I didn’t feel strong while skiing, took a couple of falls, and my pain levels skyrocketed afterward.
What I’d Do Differently
If I could go back in time, I would not choose this surgery. I would explore every other option first, even though I was in a lot of pain prior to surgery. The pain I’ve experienced post-surgery, combined with the long and difficult recovery, has made me regret my decision.
I want to stress that this is my personal experience. I know every surgical outcome is different, and there are people who’ve had success with the MISHA knee system. But for me, the negatives far outweigh any potential benefits. The pain hasn’t gone away, the recovery was far harder and longer than I was led to believe, and I’m still not able to fully return to the activities I love.
Yet again, I started running and have now run up to 4 miles. I’m not sure if a half-marathon or even a full marathon is in my future, but I’m still dreaming they are.
I ran the other day and realized how much I missed running. It just clears my head and makes me feel so good.
Looking Ahead
I’m going to keep trying to run, bike, and swim for as long as possible. And, to those of you considering the MISHA knee system or any similar procedure, I urge you to think long and hard about it. Ask tough questions, consider non-surgical options, and weigh the risks carefully. Surgery isn’t always the answer.
For now, I’m taking things one step at a time—literally and figuratively.
