How To Use A Continuous Passive Motion Machine?

Continuous Passive Motion Machine is an important tool in preventing joint stiffness and increasing mobility after joint surgery. There are various benefits and complications of CPM machines.

What Is A Continuous Passive Motion Machine?

Continuous Passive Motion Machine is a motorized device and is used to bend the joints, usually after surgery. The device helps the patient to move the joint with any effort. People often feel discomfort while moving their joints after the surgery. This device helps them in the joint movement. The machine operates itself, and the speed, degree, and movement are fixed by the physiotherapists. The Continuous Passive Motion Machine is generally used for the knee joints. However, various versions of the machine are available that also helps in moving other joints. It helps in preventing joint stiffness.

[Also Read: Tips to prevent knee pain when straightening leg]

How To Use A Continuous Passive Motion Machine?

Your doctor will provide you complete information about the Continuous Passive Motion Machine. In case you are unable to understand something, do ask your doctor. The use of Continuous Passive Motion Machine starts in the hospitals soon after the surgery. After the knee surgery, the doctor fits the patient's foot on the footpad of the Continuous Passive Motion Machine. The doctor then sets the speed and movement of the machine. You may feel pain and discomfort, which the doctor can manage through analgesics.

While discharging from the hospital, the doctor will explain the machine's functions. The doctor will also advise you about the change of setting or frequency of use. If you feel any difficulty in using the machine at home, call your doctor. Continuous Passive Motion Machine is accompanied by various other exercises and activities which the physiotherapist decides.

Continuous Passive Motion Machine Benefits

The following are some of the benefits of CPM machine;

1. Preventing Joint Stiffness

Continuous passive motion machine for hip, continuous passive motion machine for shoulder, or continuous passive motion machine for knee helps in reducing or preventing joint stiffness. When the patient undergoes knee surgery, there is a risk of stiff joints, which reduces mobility. Through the continuous motion of the joint right after the surgery, the patient has increased mobility.

2.Reducing The Risk Of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Patients are at high risk for developing deep vein thrombosis. Continuous Passive Motion Machine reduces this risk.

3. Prevents Edema At The Surgery Site

Continuous Passive Motion Machine also prevents fluid accumulation and edema at the surgery site.

4. Avoids Fibrosis

During the joint stiffness, the joint also has fibrosis resulting in scar formation. Continuous Passive Motion Machine helps in avoiding fibrosis.

5. Reduces Pain

Continuous Passive Motion Machine also helps in reducing pain and discomfort.

6. Accelerates Recovery

It also accelerates the recovery rate and reduces the number of days of hospital stay.

Continuous Passive Motion Machine Complications

Following are some of the complications of Continuous Passive Motion Machine;

1. Increases Bed Rest Time

The Continuous Passive Motion Machine may increase the bed rest time and prevent the patient from engaging in rehabilitation. The American Physical Therapy Association recommends that CPM should not be used for uncomplicated knee arthroplasty.

2. Increased Bleeding

CPM sometimes results in increased bleeding. However, the bleeding is not so severe.

3. The Tension Of The Wound

If the CPM is used in the presence of swelling, it may cause tension in the wounds.

4. Nerve Compression Palsies

Because of the continuous local pressure, the CPM may also cause nerve compression palsies.

Precautions To Be Taken

Following are some of the precautions to be taken with the CPM machine;

• Avoid exposure of the machine to water and wet surfaces.
• Use the machine on a flat surface.
• Use the machine only as directed.
• While using the machine, do not cover the machine.

How Long Should You Use A CPM Machine?

The time period for using the machine depends upon the complexity of the surgery and the advice of your doctor. Usually, the patients use the CPM machine for around 7-8 days.

CPM Machine Cost

The average cost of a CPM machine in India ranges from INR 11000 to INR 20000. As the machine is used only for a few days, certain agencies provide the machine on rental charges.

Conclusion

CPM reduces pain, minimizes joint stiffness, improves mobility, and accelerates recovery. However, use the machine under the guidance of expert physiotherapists.