The Useful Continuous Passive Motion (CPM)

Overviewdevelopment.
Continuous passive motion (CPM) is one of theThe use of CPM
primary methods for decreasing the deleteriousApplied postoperatively, this device may be used on
effects of immobilization and can deliver orthopedic,an inpatient or an outpatient basis. By using a
neurological, and even circulatory benefits to themotorized device to very gradually move the joint, it
patient. Immobilization, in turn, can create deleteriousis possible to significantly accelerate recovery time by
sequelae of physiological and functional impairments.decreasing soft tissue stiffness,increasing range of
CPM is used following various types of reconstructivemotion, promoting healing of joint surfaces and soft
joint surgery such as knee replacement and ACLtissue, and preventing the development of
reconstruction. Its mechanisms of action for aidingmotion-limiting adhesions (scar tissue). Interestingly,
joint recovery are dependent upon what surgery isthis is accomplished without patient effort (passively)
performed. One mechanism is the movement ofas the machine moves ajoint through a defined
synovial fluid to allow for better diffusion of nutrients(prescribed) range of motion for an extended period
into damaged cartilage (which would be unimportantof time. Even more surprisingly, studies have shown
in the event of joint replacement), and diffusion ofthat patients using CPM devices require less pain
other materials out; such as blood and metabolicmedication then patients who have had the same
waste products. Another mechanism is thetype of surgery and are notusing this device.
prevention of fibrous scar tissue formation in theWithin 24 hours of surgery your doctor can initiate
joint, which tends to decrease the range of motionthe CPM machine.The machine will be used on your
for a joint. The concept was created by Robert B.new knee at least 4 hours during the day and all
Salter M.D in 1970 and, along with help from engineernight. You will continue this program when you go
John Saringer, a device was created in 1978.home.
CPM evolved over the course of several decades,The fuction of CPM
and is based on deductions that the inventorCPM would accelerate the healing of articular cartilage
formulated through clinical observation and practice.and periarticular structures, such as the joint capsule,
The first of these is that prolonged immobilization ofligaments, and tendons. CPM would decrease the
synovial joints causes many problems, includinglikelihood of joint contractures, therefore maintaining
persistent stiffness and pain, muscle atrophy, disusethe range of motion(ROM) achieved during surgery.
osteoporosis, and eventually degenerative arthritisCPM has been shown to significantly increase venous
when the joints are actively mobilized at a later time.flow over active and passive ankle dorsiflexion,
Second, beneficial effects of early active motionpneumatic compression, and manual calf
were seen clinically, such as decreased edema,compressions. The CPM machine has many
decreased pain, and shorter rehabilitation time.advantages. The machine administers controlled,
Finally, observations of cardiac surgery wherein thepassive motion, which increases blood flow to the
heart muscle heals properly in the presence ofjoint. The increased blood brings nutrition to the joint,
constant motion, and in the costovertebral joints,and helps to alleviate swelling.The CPM machine
where constant motion occurs throughout the life ofincreases flexibility in the joint and shortens the time
the individual, yet where degenerative arthritis isof hospital stay.
rarely seen, led the inventor to pursue CPM