What Is A CPM Machine And How Does It Work?

14th Dec 2023

CPM machines are an invaluable technology that has helped countless individuals find the most efficient and effective route toward recovery after surgery. Nearly any joint in your body can benefit from this therapy method, including ankles, knees, elbows, and hips, and it can be an integral part of your recovery at the click of a button.

Read from the Medcom team to learn about CPM machines and how they work before starting.

What is a CPM Machine?

CPM machine is an abbreviation for continuous passive motion machine. This electronic device helps provide motion to a joint or ligament that has recently undergone surgery without any input or force by the patient themself.

It’s very important for patients who have entered postoperative recovery to incorporate movement into their therapy routines - this will facilitate a quick and thorough recovery that maintains as much mobility as possible. If you've already had your operation, you probably already know that surgery leaves you with significant stiffness and pain, which often makes the exertion of movement difficult. CPM machines, fortunately, help patients of any age overcome this issue.

The History of CPM Machines

Robert B. Salter, M.D. was a renowned Canadian surgeon who helped revolutionize pediatric orthopedic surgery. In 1970, Salter created the concept of the first CPM machine and, with the assistance of John Saringer (engineer specializing in biomechanics and accelerated wound recovery), created the first functional device in 1978.

The first 18 years of Salter’s research that led to the development of the CPM machine can be found in his 1989 published article, and it would be the foundation of machines that help the recovery of all synovial joints, including pivot, hinge, condyloid, saddle, plane, and ball-and socket-joints.

The latest CPM machine technology benefits from this 50+ year history.

Why Use a CPM Machine?

As stated above, the primary benefit of CPM machines is maintaining the range of motion (ROM) in joints that have recently undergone surgery. Even when it’s challenging to move a joint (because of the pain often accompanying post-operative recovery), CPM machines help to provide that movement without any input or active effort on behalf of the individual. Benefits include:

It is agreed in medical research that continuous passive motion machines should be implemented in the first rehabilitation phase after surgery.

How Does a CPM Machine Work?

CPM machines work precisely as the name implies. After the motor device is set to the desired rotation speed and angle, CPM machines work by passively moving a joint in continuous and repetitive movements.

The first step is securing your joint and the accompanying limb - for example, a knee CPM machine typically incorporates the entire leg. The limb will be positioned within the device, and a hinge will be underneath the specific joint. The machine can be adjusted to suit the length of the leg, and a physiotherapist will prescribe the exact motion parameters (speed, angle, and duration) under which the machine will operate.

Once you are in position, the machine can be switched on. The goal is to begin with an easily tolerable speed and range of motion to maintain comfort before attempting more extensive ranges of motion. CPM machines should be used 3-4 times daily, but consulting with your healthcare professional for a more tailored approach is essential.

CPM machines work through their consistent application of motion. By helping encourage blood and edema fluid flow away from the joint and periarticular tissues, swelling and scar tissue formation are reduced, ROM is increased, and the corresponding pain is reduced through more efficient and effective recovery.

Follow the specific operating instructions provided in each respective device, as there are many different types. There are CPM machines for ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, and more, and each device may have unique ways of operating it. Be sure to contact your physiotherapist, doctor, and medical provider for specialist medical advice, or contact the experts at Medcom Group for help operating the machine properly.

Finally, read our tips on how to get the most out of your CPM machine and how to optimize recovery time before getting started.

Expert Providers of CPM Machines

CPM machines are a highly beneficial addition to phase one postoperative recovery and therapy. By encouraging continuous passive motion, joints and ligaments have a faster route to improvement without any required exertion on behalf of the patient.

A CPM machine may be the perfect solution if you, a loved one, or a company patient can benefit from a more efficient and effective recovery from surgery. Whether you need to rent or purchase a machine, contact the experts at Medcom Group right away!

Disclaimer

This guide is intended as a general informational resource for medical professionals, not as a substitute for professional medical advice or consultation. The content provided here cannot cover all possible scenarios related to CPM machines and their usage. Always consult and adhere to manufacturer guidelines, and don't hesitate to consult with a medical equipment specialist if any queries or complexities arise.

While our team strives to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the medcom group®, ltd., does not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information presented. The use of information derived from this guide is at the user’s own risk. Any reliance on the information is therefore solely at the user's own risk.

The medcom group®, ltd., its affiliates, and employees are not responsible or liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, drug and device application, or other information, services, or products that you obtain through this guide. This disclaimer of liability applies to any damages or injury, whether based on alleged breach of contract, tortious behavior, negligence, or any other cause of action, resulting from or in any way connected with the information provided in this guide.

Always consult with your healthcare professional or other qualified healthcare provider if you have any questions about a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this guide.

Sources

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Boese CK, Weis M, Phillips T, Lawton-Peters S, Gallo T, Centeno L. The efficacy of continuous passive motion after total knee arthroplasty: a comparison of three protocols. J Arthroplasty. 2014 Jun;29(6):1158-62. doi: 10.1016/j.arth.2013.12.005. Epub 2013 Dec 14. PMID: 24412145.

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Leach W, Reid J, Murphy F. Continuous passive motion following total knee replacement: a prospective randomized trial with follow-up to 1 year. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2006 Oct;14(10):922-6. doi: 10.1007/s00167-006-0042-9. Epub 2006 Feb 18. PMID: 16489477.

Ritter MA, Gandolf VS, Holston KS. Continuous passive motion versus physical therapy in total knee arthroplasty. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1989 Jul;(244):239-43. PMID: 2743665.

Ververeli PA, Sutton DC, Hearn SL, Booth RE Jr, Hozack WJ, Rothman RR. Continuous passive motion after total knee arthroplasty. Analysis of cost and benefits. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1995 Dec;(321):208-15. PMID: 7497671.

Vince KG, Kelly MA, Beck J, Insall JN. Continuous passive motion after total knee arthroplasty. J Arthroplasty. 1987;2(4):281-4. doi: 10.1016/s0883-5403(87)80060-8. PMID: 3430154.

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