Contributing physicians in this story
Erika Christensen, a Florida operating room nurse, is the first recipient of an innovative medical device called the Medial Implantable Shock Absorber Knee System (MISHA). Erica had constant knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and a torn meniscus. Despite a prior partial meniscectomy and arthroscopic surgery, her pain persisted. Young, active, and with a job that keeps her on her feet all day, total knee replacement was not her best option. Fortunately, for Erica, Dr. Thomasson was able to perform a new procedure that can help patients with chronic knee pain avoid or delay total joint replacement.
The MISHA Knee System is a surgically implanted medical device that acts like a shock absorber to reduce pressure on the inner (medial) side of a damaged knee. The shock absorbers shield the medial compartment during weight-bearing activities like walking or standing. The procedure reduces pain and improves function without altering the native knee joint or lower extremity anatomy. Dr. Thomasson placed the device under the skin, but outside the knee joint capsule, which means he did not cut ligaments, remove bone, or enter the joint itself. Because the procedure does not damage the internal joint structures, patients can often bear full weight around two weeks post-op and return to full activity in a few months. Since Dr. Thomasson did not alter the knee joint, if Erica ever needs joint replacement the implant can be removed for knee arthroplasty.
About Benjamin G, Thomasson, DO, FAOAO, FAAOS
Benjamin G. Thomasson, DO, FAOAO, FAAOS, is board certified in both orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine by the American Osteopathic Association and the American Osteopathic Association of Orthopaedics.
As a part of The Hughston Clinic, Dr. Thomasson specializes in sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle, cartilage restoration, ligament reconstruction and repair, as well as shoulder, knee, and hip replacement. In addition to his MISHA certification, Dr. Thomasson is certified to perform the Matrix Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (MACI), and no incision knee arthroscopy. Further, he is an experienced surgeon in performing hip arthroscopy and hip labral reconstruction for his patients.
Dr. Thomasson serves as team physician for Justin Sports Medicine, caring for members of the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association. He also works with The Hughston Clinic Sports Medicine Team caring for rodeo athletes from several other regional rodeos. Locally, Dr. Thomasson is the team physician for Orlando Roller Derby, Thunder City Roller Derby (Deland), Orlando Women’s Rugby, Stetson Futbol Association, and The Orlando Rovers FC. Dr. Thomasson volunteers at several local schools as team physician for The Master’s Academy (Oviedo), Deland High School, and University High School (Orange City). He is a proud community sponsor of the Deland Police Athletic Association, Deland High School Cheer, Me Strong 5K, Stetson University Surf Club, and Stetson University Men’s Intermural Soccer Club, and The Silver Spurs Rodeo Arena.
Last edited on September 15, 2026