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- $Unique_ID{BRK02157}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Continuous Passive Motion}
- $Subject{Continuous Passive Motion CPM easy helpful rehabilitation exercise
- motorized calisthenic tables weight inch loss spots knee surgery joint
- replacement orthopedic surgeries sports medicine ligament reconstruction
- physical conditions muscles nerves joints tendons stroke elderly mobility}
- $Volume{}
- $Log{}
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- Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Continuous Passive Motion
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- QUESTION: I know there are all sorts of exercises for all types of needs and
- goals. What about a type of exercise called CPM? I just heard that they are
- easy to do and are helpful. Do I have the right information, or am I just
- looking for an easy way out again? I know you will tell me.
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- ANSWER: As exercise, CPM probably has very little value; but as a
- rehabilitation tool it may well be very useful.
- The idea of continuous passive motion (CPM) tables were actively promoted
- as methods of losing inches while "motorized calisthenic tables do all the
- work", which may be where you have gotten all your information--or
- misinformation. The technique translates as some outside force creates the
- motion while you passively (while at rest) just allow it to happen. No work
- there.
- Most experts agree that in exercise, "no pain" (or at least, "no work" ),
- "no gain" is all too true. CPM does not cause weight or inch loss and
- certainly not in "spots," as some people advertise. You don't really use your
- muscles when some outside force causes the motion, and there is no forceful
- contraction which either uses energy or acts as the stimulus for new muscle
- development. So it just doesn't work.
- For rehabilitation, however, CPM reportedly can be useful with
- patents who have undergone knee surgery, joint replacement, and other such
- orthopedic surgeries. Also, in sports medicine CPM is used primarily
- after ligament reconstruction and may help patients with physical
- conditions that preclude exercise, i.e., problems with the muscles and
- nerves. It keeps joints working, permitting a full range of motion while
- the muscles and tendons have a chance to heal. But it is only the first
- step in the process of rehabilitation, and is followed by exercise in
- which the patient actively moves the arm or leg.
- Additionally, CPM may be helpful with stroke victims and the elderly for
- the same reasons. It keeps the joints working and helps the patient retain
- the greatest possible mobility. As you can see, while easy exercises may have
- a place in some cases, it can't replace the gain obtained from a little extra
- effort known as "work".
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
-