Continuous Passive Motion Machine
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
A continuous passive motion (CPM) machine is a device that slowly and gently moves your joint while you are in bed. You may need to use a CPM machine for any of the following:- After surgery such as a total knee replacement or rotator cuff repair
- After excision of scar tissue from a joint with manipulation for stiffness
- For conditions such as osteoarthritis or after a fracture in your arm or leg
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- Any part of your arm or leg is numb.
- Your leg or arm is pale and cool to the touch.
- Your knee or ankle is turned inward or outward.
- Your elbow or shoulder is turned inward or outward.
- Your stitches come apart.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- Your skin is itchy, swollen, or you have a rash.
- You have questions or concerns about how to use your CPM.
When should I stop using a CPM?
Your healthcare provider will tell you when to stop using a CPM. You may need to use a CPM for up to 6 weeks. Stop using a CPM and call your healthcare provider immediately if:
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You have a fever or chills.
- Your wound is red, swollen, or draining pus.
- You have more pain than usual when you use the CPM machine.
- Your stitches come apart.
Self-care:
- Take pain medicine before using your CPM machine. Control your pain so it is more comfortable to use your machine. Wait 20 to 30 minutes after taking pain medicine to use your machine.
- Do not leave your CPM machine on the floor. Keep floors and pathways clear to prevent falls.
- Do not use a CPM machine when smoking. Smoking, or using your CPM machine near open flames and heat, may cause a fire.
- Keep your CPM machine dry. Do not use water or cleaners directly on your machine. This may cause damage to the CPM machine. Ask your healthcare provider how to clean your machine.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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