devices are available for synovial joints (hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and TMJ) following surgery or trauma (including fracture, infection, etc). The device moves the affected joint continuously on a 24-hour basis, without patient assistance. The device is held in place across the affected joint by Velcro straps. An electrical power unit is used to set the variable range of motion and speed. The speed and range of motion can be adjusted depending on joint stability, patient comfort level, and other factors assessed intraoperatively.
Continuous passive motion (CPM) is a treatment method designed to aid in the recovery of joints after surgery. CPM is carried out by a CPM device, which constantly moves the joint through a small range of motion, the eaxact range is dependent upon the joint, but in most cases the range of motion is increased over time. CPM is used following various types of joint surgery, and its mechanisms of action for aiding joint recovery are dependent upon what surgery is used.