What is Continuous Passive Motion (CPM)?
Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) is a post-operative treatment method that is
designed to aid recovery after joint or soft tissue surgery. CPM devices are
used both in the hospital and in the home. Passive range of motion means that
the joint is moved
without patient effort. The motorized CPM device gradually
moves the affected joint through a prescribed arc of motion for an extended
period of time. Through use of a CPM device, it is possible to significantly
accelerate recovery time by decreasing soft tissue stiffness, increasing range
of motion, promoting the healing of joint surfaces and soft tissue, and
preventing the development of motion-limiting adhesions (scar tissue).
Since CPM helps to improve the healing process of a joint, patients end up with fewer complications due to immobilization – joints were meant to move and they are healthier when they do… That’s why we are passionate about motion!
When is CPM Prescribed?
Surgeons commonly prescribe CPM following total knee replacement, ligament reconstruction, tendon repair, joint manipulation under anesthesia, arthroscopic debridement of adhesions, stabilized intra-articular fracture, articular cartilage repair/regeneration techniques and meniscal repair of the knee. But CPM is not limited to the knee joint. There are CPM devices for almost every joint in the body.
For hands, wrists and other upper extremity joints, your CPM representative is usually working closely in tandem with your therapist to help keep your range of motion at it’s maximum capability. CPM for these more complicated joints can often be prescribed for 6 weeks as the joints and the tissue around the joints heal.
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