FAQs
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A CPM machine is a device that may be used to help in the recovery of a person who has had joint surgery. The purpose of CPM machines is to improve range of motion. They give continuous motion sessions for joints that are unable to move freely. When people try to move their joint following surgery, they may experience pain. This may drive patients to avoid moving the joint, resulting in stiffness, loss of mobility, and scar tissue formation.
After knee surgery, CPM machines are most used. They are also useful in treating the hip, shoulder,
and elbow joints. They’ve also been utilised to treat persistent non-specific back pain.
Based on the type and extent of surgery, the amount of time you should use your CPM machine for the most part, CPM machines are used for 4 hours a day for 4 weeks after hip surgery. After having a knee replacement, the typical length of time is three weeks, but it can be shorter or longer than that. Advice from your consultant or surgeon always preferred.
Check with your doctor to make sure that a CPM machine is right for you and to see if there are other ways to help you. Recent research does not show that they work in all situations.
Your doctor and the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your CPM machine are the best people to show you how to use it.
Most of the time, people use the device while they are lying down on a bed or on another surface that is comfortable for them. In most cases, the machine comes with a remote control that lets you set the length and angle of the machine, and also the speed. There is a remote that you can use to turn on or off the machine.
If the machine has knobs and straps, you can adjust them to fit your arm or leg. Your doctor or nurse can show you how to best set up the device.
Before you start to use the machine, make sure you have had pain relief and are comfortable on your bed. You first need to get your leg in the right place. If they are no longer on the ward, the nursing staff have been taught how to use the machine. It will be easy to get the length of the machine to fit your leg because there is a hinge under your knee. When you are in the right position and are as comfortable as you can be, the machine will be turned on. It will start with a range of motion that is easy for you to handle. You will be given the tools you need to increase the range of motion on your own.
To control the machine, you must:
1. Press the red START button on the right-hand side.
2. Hold DOWN the FLEX button under the symbol of the bent knee.
3. Use the arrows on the right-hand side to set the machine at the desired bend. The angle
the machine is set at will be shown on the small central screen. Let go of the FLEX button.
4. Gradually increase the range of motion as tolerable by holding down the FLEX button again and pressing the up arrow.
5. When you are ready, press the red STOP button. It is best to stop the machine whilst your leg is fully stretched out.
Your healthcare provider may tell you use a CPM machine with other treatments such as physical therapy. A CPM machine may help you recover from surgery or injury in the following ways:
▪ The range of motion (ROM) of your arm or leg will increase. The CPM machine will flex (bend) your joint for you. Your healthcare provider may program the CPM machine to increase the amount that your joint is flexed over time. ROM may prevent scar tissue from forming. This may also prevent pain and stiffness in your knee.
▪ Your muscles may get stronger more quickly. The CPM machine will gently exercise your arm and leg muscles to prevent them from getting weak. Your tendons and ligaments, the tissue that connects your muscles and bones, may also get stronger by using a CPM.
▪ You may have less pain. A CPM machine will elevate your leg or arm and decrease swelling. You may have less pain if your swelling is decreased.
▪ You may have increased blood flow in your arm or leg. Increased blood flow to your tissues will help you heal faster.
For the most part, referral doctors and surgeons are trusted by physical therapists and occupational therapists to use evidence-based practise when making medical decisions. Some crucial considerations must be made before prescribing CPM, which is still a common practise among many orthopaedic physicians today.
While some people can restore their range of motion quickly, others require a longer period. Most patients should be able to bend at least 90 degrees by the six-week mark following surgery. Many people, on the other hand, will see large gains in their range over the course of the next six weeks.
Do not use the CPM machine while you are sleeping. Tolerable flexion can be increased on the machine. Call the company to arrange pick-up of the equipment once you’ve achieved flexion of 100 degrees as per your therapist or your doctor advised.
The following are some ways that a CPM machine might aid with your recovery after surgery or an injury:
▪ Your arm or leg’s range of motion (ROM) will increase.
▪ Your joint will be flexed (bent) by the CPM machine.
▪ Strengthening your muscles may occur more rapidly.
▪ There’s a chance your discomfort will subside.
▪ Your arm or leg may be experiencing increased blood flow.
A CPM machine may be purchased and used at home. Depending on their hospital, they may be able to order a CPM machine ahead of time and have it delivered to the facility the day of operation, or they can rent from outside providers.
People can talk to their doctor about the cost of renting or purchasing the equipment. A CPM machine can also be purchased online or via medical equipment firms.
▪ CPM machines should only be used on a flat, firm surface.
▪ Keep moving portions of the machine free of hair, clothes, fingers, and any other loose things. Press STOP and then START to go the other way if you are stuck.
▪ Avoid getting your hands or clothing wet.
▪ Always keep an open flame or a lighted cigarette at least three feet away from you.
▪ Don’t use the machine while you’re sleeping unless your doctor tells you to, and only if you’re being closely monitored.
▪ If you’re taking medicine that impairs your ability to move, ensure sure someone is nearby to monitor your usage of the machine.
▪ Make sure the machine is clearly visible when in use.
▪ Don’t smother yourself with blankets.
▪ Whenever not in use, unplug the device. Take hold of the plug rather than the wire. Before disconnecting, turn the power off.
▪ Avoid leaving your CPM machine unattended. Prevent falls by keeping walkways and floors free of obstructions.
▪ When smoking, do not use a CPM machine. A fire can start if you smoke or use your CPM machine in close proximity to heat or open flames.
▪ Keep your CPM machine in good working order by keeping it well-ventilated. Do not use water or cleansers on your machine directly. The CPM machine may be damaged as a result of this. Ask your doctor or healthcare professional how to clean your device.
Using a CPM machine might be dangerous if you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions. A CPM machine may be required for up to six weeks. Stop using a CPM machine and call your healthcare provider immediately if:
▪ It may appear red and bloated.
▪ You’re suffering from a fever or the flu.
▪ There’s pus coming out of your wound or its bloated and inflamed.
▪ When using the CPM machine, you feel greater discomfort than normal.
▪ Your sutures fall out.