Directions for Continuous Passive Motion

A continuous passive motion (CPM) machine is a device prescribed by physicians to alleviate pain and swelling in a joint area due to injury or surgery. Total knee replacements and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repairs are the most common surgeries that call for the use of this machine. CPM machines also come in smaller versions for use with elbows, shoulders, hands, wrists and ankles. These devices work by slowly moving the affected joint at a prescribed pace and range of motion to keep the area loose and help the healing process.

Instructions

• 1

  Place the CPM machine under the affected limb. Use a flat, solid surface to avoid tipping the machine and dislocating the extremity.

• 2

  Align the joint on the limb with the hinge on the machine. Adjust any other parts of the device, such as footplates, to customize the machine to the patient.

• 3

  Fasten the limb to the machine with the provided straps to secure it in place.

• 4

  Turn on the machine, and allow the machine to move the limb slowly. The machine's settings are determined by a physician and programmed by a physical therapist prior to use. If discomfort occurs, some machines have an option for the patient to decrease speed temporarily and a motion setting to alleviate pain as well as an emergency shutoff if severe pain occurs.

• 5

  Continue to use the machine as prescribed. Most patients use the CPM for anywhere between two to 10 hours a day in two-hour increments until the affected limb can reach an extended position comfortably.