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Discharge Instructions: Using a Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Machine

Your doctor prescribed a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine to use after surgery. The CPM machine is attached to a knee or other limb on which the surgery was done. While you relax, the machine constantly moves the knee or other limb through a range of motion for a period of time. CPM is thought to prevent joint stiffness, relieve pain, and help regain normal motion. The CPM has supportive padding, a power supply, and a frame that adjusts to your body. Here’s what you need to know about home care.

Home care

Recommendations for home care include: 

  • Use the machine settings and make any adjustments as directed by your doctor.

  • Contact your doctor when you think you can stop using the machine completely. This is usually when your arm or leg can reach an extended (straight) position. And it's usually when you can bend your arm or leg to the degree your doctor advised.

  • Use pain medicine as directed by your doctor.

  • Follow any special instructions given to you by your doctor. If you feel pain, stop the exercise. If the pain continues after stopping, contact your doctor.

  • If your doctor has advised you to work with a physical therapist (PT), continue to do so. CPM does not take the place of working with a PT. A PT can help you with exercises.

Call 911

Call 911 right away if you have:

  • Chest pain.

  • Shortness of breath.

When to contact your doctor

Contact your doctor if you have:

  • More pain in the affected limb.

  • Pain that doesn't get better with medicine.

  • Pain or swelling in the area near your surgery.

  • Redness, warmth, or any fluid leaking around the incision.

  • Numbness, tingling, or blue-gray color in your affected limb.

  • A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor.

  • Chills.

Online Medical Reviewer: Dan Brennan MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed: 5/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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