What is Continuous Passive Motion Machine?

What is a continuous manual exercise machine?
A continuous passive motion machine (CPM) is a device that moves your joints slowly and smoothly while you lie in bed. You may need to use a CPM machine for one of the following:

After surgery, such as total knee arthroplasty or rotator cuff repair
After removing the scar tissue of the joint by manipulation for stiffness
For osteoarthritis or conditions after a fracture of an arm or leg

How can a CPM machine help?
Your healthcare provider may instruct you to use the CPM machine in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy. CPM machines can help you recover from surgery or injury in the following ways:

Increases the range of motion (ROM) of an arm or leg. CPM machines bend joints. Healthcare providers can program the CPM device to increase the amount of joint flexion over time. ROM prevents the formation of scar tissue. It also prevents knee pain and stiffness.
Your muscles can get stronger faster. CPM machines gently exercise the muscles of the arms and legs to avoid weakness. Tendons and ligaments, the tissues that connect muscles and bones, can also be strengthened with CPM. It may be less painful. CPM machines reduce swelling by elevating the legs or arms. You may feel less pain as the swelling goes down.
Blood flow to your arms or legs may have increased. Increased blood flow to tissues helps heal faster.
 

How can I use my CPM machine safely? 

Your healthcare provider will show you how to install the CPM device. It also shows how to change the bend amount, speed, and time. You may need to use the CPM unit 3-4 times a day for up to 2 hours at a time. If you use the device on your shoulder, you can only use it for 20-30 minutes at a time. Ask your healthcare provider how to use the type of CPM device you have. Safety measures such as:

Place the CPM on a tabletop or heavy object. This will prevent them from moving during use.
Connect the CPM machine. Move the cord under the bed or secure it to the floor to prevent it from falling.
You may need to remove the shoulder or knee immobilizer before using the CPM machine. Ask your healthcare provider how to remove the immobilizer.
If you are using a CPM machine on your knees, position your feet so that the center of your knee is where the CPM machine bends, and the bottom of your leg rests on the footrest. If using a CPM machine on your shoulders, position your elbows so that the CPM is in a bent position. Place your hands around the handle. Secure the legs of the machine by wrapping the machine straps around the hips, shins, and legs.
Secure your hand to the device by wrapping the device strap around your wrist. 

What else do you need to know about CPM machines?
Treat pain before using the CPM device. Monitor your pain for comfort when using the device. After taking the pain reliever, wait 20-30 minutes before using the device. Do not place the CPM on the floor. Keep floors and paths clean to avoid tripping. Do not use the CPM device while smoking. Smoking or using a CPM in an open or hot environment may cause a fire. Keep the CPM device dry. Do not use water or detergent directly on the device. CPM may be damaged. Ask your healthcare provider how to clean your device. 

When should I stop using CPM?

Your healthcare provider will tell you when you should stop using the CPM device. You may need to use the CPM device for up to six weeks. Stop using CPM and contact your healthcare provider immediately if:

Hands or feet are warm, soft, and painful. It may appear swollen and red.
You have a fever or chills. The wound is red, swollen, or has pus.
I have more pain than usual when I use the CPM machine. The needle falls.
 

When do I need immediate help? 

Your leg or arm is larger than normal and painful.
Any part of the arm or leg is paralyzed. Your feet or hands are pale and cold to the touch.
The knee or ankle is rotated inward or outward. The elbow or shoulder is rotated inward or outward.
The needle falls. 

When should I call my healthcare provider?
You have a fever or chills. The wound is red, swollen, or oozing pus.
The skin is itchy, swollen, or has a rash.