Skill 16

Continuous Passive Motion Machine

The continuous passive motion (CPM) machine is designed to exercise various joints such as the hip, ankle, knee, shoulder, and wrist. The CPM machine is most commonly used after knee surgery. It is usually prescribed on the day of surgery or the first postoperative day, depending on the surgeon’s preference and patient’s condition. The purpose of the CPM machine is to mobilize the joint to prevent contractures, muscle atrophy, venous stasis, and thromboembolism. It helps alleviate pain, edema, stiffness, and dislocation and potentially can shorten a patient’s hospital stay.