Continuous passive movement (CPM) is a type of therapy that involves using a machine to move a joint through a range of motion without the patient actively participating. It is typically used to improve range of motion and reduce pain and stiffness in joints that have been immobilized, such as after surgery or an injury.
CPM is typically used for the knee, ankle, elbow, or shoulder joint. The machine is adjusted to the patient’s range of motion and then moves the joint through a set range of motion at a slow and steady pace. The patient sits or lies down and the machine is attached to the affected joint.
The CPM machine is designed to move the joint at a slow, consistent pace, typically between 30 and 90 degrees per minute. The therapy is typically administered for a period of 30 minutes to 2 hours per day, depending on the patient’s condition and the physician’s recommendations. The therapy is typically started within 24-48 hours of surgery and can last for up to 3-6 weeks post-surgery.
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Types of Continuous Passive Movement (CPM)
There are different types of CPM machines available, including those designed for the knee, hip, ankle, elbow, and shoulder. The machines vary in size, weight, and cost, and can be either portable or stationary. Some CPM machines can be used at home, while others are only available in a clinical setting.
In addition, there are also some other variations of CPM machines that are used to target different areas of the body or to provide different types of therapy. Some examples include:
- Multi-joint CPM: This type of machine is designed to move multiple joints in the body at the same time. It can be used to treat patients with multiple joint injuries or surgeries.
- Spinal CPM: This type of machine is designed to move the spine through a range of motion. It is often used to help patients with spinal conditions such as scoliosis or spinal fractures regain range of motion and reduce pain.
- Hand and Wrist CPM: This type of machine is designed to move the hand and wrist through a range of motion. It is often used to help patients with hand and wrist injuries or surgeries regain range of motion and strength.
- Pediatric CPM: This type of machine is designed for use in children. It can be used to help children with injuries or surgeries regain range of motion and reduce pain.
- Dynamic CPM: This type of machine is designed to provide a more active form of therapy by using a combination of passive and active movements. It is often used to help patients with more severe injuries or surgeries regain range of motion and reduce pain.
The therapy is typically performed for several hours a day, for several weeks. It is typically used in the early stages of rehabilitation, as a way to maintain and improve range of motion while the patient is still unable to actively move the joint.
Indications of CPM
Continuous Passive Movement (CPM) therapy is typically used to treat a variety of conditions related to joint injury or surgery. Some common indications for CPM therapy include:
- Knee replacement surgery: CPM therapy is often used to help patients regain range of motion and strength in the knee following surgery.
- Hip replacement surgery: Similar to knee replacement, CPM therapy can be used to help patients regain range of motion and strength in the hip following surgery.
- Traumatic joint injuries: CPM therapy can be used to help patients regain range of motion and reduce pain following a traumatic injury to a joint such as a fracture, dislocation, or ligament tear.
- Soft tissue injuries: CPM therapy can be used to help patients regain range of motion and reduce pain following injuries to the tendons, ligaments, or muscles surrounding a joint.
- Arthritis: CPM therapy may be used to help patients with arthritis maintain or improve range of motion in the affected joint.
- Rehabilitation after cast immobilization: CPM therapy can be used to help patients regain range of motion following a period of immobilization in a cast.
It’s important to note that CPM therapy is typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, and is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy such as exercise and manual therapy. A Physical Therapist or physician will determine if CPM is suitable for the patient and set the appropriate course of treatment.
Contraindications of CPM
Continuous Passive Movement (CPM) therapy is generally considered safe, but there are certain contraindications that should be considered before starting the therapy. These include:
- Deep vein thrombosis: CPM therapy should not be used on patients who have a history of deep vein thrombosis, as the therapy may increase the risk of blood clots.
- Bone infection: CPM therapy should not be used on patients who have an active bone infection, as the therapy may spread the infection.
- Vascular insufficiency: CPM therapy should not be used on patients who have poor circulation in the affected limb, as the therapy may increase the risk of tissue damage.
- Sensory or motor deficits: CPM therapy should not be used on patients who have significant sensory or motor deficits in the affected limb, as the therapy may not be effective or may cause further damage.
- Open wounds or skin breakdown: CPM therapy should not be used on patients who have open wounds or skin breakdown in the area of the joint, as the therapy may cause further irritation or damage.
- Metal allergies: CPM therapy should not be used on patients who have metal allergies, as the therapy may cause adverse reactions.
It’s important to note that CPM therapy should be used under the guidance of a physical therapist or physician, as they will evaluate the patient’s condition and determine if CPM therapy is appropriate. If CPM is contraindicated, alternative therapies may be recommended.
Overall, continuous passive movement therapy is a non-invasive and safe way to help improve range of motion, reduce pain and stiffness, and prevent muscle atrophy. It should be used under the guidance of a physical therapist or other healthcare professional, and it may not be suitable for everyone.