Abstract: A sensing insert device (100) is disclosed for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The sensing insert device (100) can be temporary or permanent. Used intra-operatively, the sensing insert device (100) comprises an insert dock (202) and a sensing module (200). The sensing module (200) is a self-contained encapsulated measurement device having at least one contacting surface that couples to the muscular-skeletal system. The sensing module (200) comprises one or more sensing assemblages (1802), electronic circuitry (307), an antenna (2302), and communication circuitry (320). The at least one circuit board (1612 and 1616) includes the antenna (2302). The antenna (2302) is formed as one or more loops around a periphery of the circuit board. The antenna (2302) allows short-range transmission of the measured parameter data to a receiver placed in proximity to the muscular-skeletal system. Alternatively, the antenna can be formed in the insert dock (202).