What is Continuous passive motion CPM machine: Uses, Safety, Operation, and top Manufacturers!

Introduction

Continuous passive motion CPM machine is a powered rehabilitation medical device designed to move a patient’s joint through a controlled range of motion without active muscle effort. In hospitals and outpatient settings, it is most commonly associated with post-operative orthopedic pathways (especially knee care), but it can also appear in broader rehabilitation programs where passive, repeatable motion is part of a clinician-led plan.

For hospital administrators, clinicians, biomedical engineers, and procurement teams, this clinical device sits at the intersection of patient experience, therapy workflow, safety management, and serviceability. Decisions about whether to deploy CPM, how to standardize settings, and how to maintain the equipment affect not only clinical operations but also risk, infection control, and total cost of ownership.

This article provides practical, non-prescriptive guidance on how Continuous passive motion CPM machine is typically used, how to operate it safely, what outputs it may provide, and how to troubleshoot common problems. It also outlines cleaning principles, explains manufacturer vs. OEM dynamics, and offers a country-by-country snapshot of the global market environment relevant to CPM procurement and support.

CPM technology has been part of orthopedic rehabilitation for decades, but its use has evolved. Older devices were often simple motor-and-hinge systems with limited programmability, while newer devices may include programmable protocols, lockable clinician settings, improved padding interfaces, and more robust fault detection. Despite its long history, CPM is not universally embedded in every clinical pathway; adoption is often influenced by local evidence reviews, surgeon preference, payer or reimbursement considerations, and the operational realities of staffing and equipment availability.

Because CPM is frequently shared equipment (especially in inpatient settings), many of the real-world success factors are operational rather than purely clinical: consistent setup steps, clear monitoring expectations, accessory availability, and reliable cleaning and maintenance. This article is not medical advice and does not replace the manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU) or clinical decision-making. Its goal is to help teams reduce variability and risk when CPM is part of a documented care plan.

What is Continuous passive motion CPM machine and why do we use it?

Definition and purpose

Continuous passive motion CPM machine is a motor-driven piece of hospital equipment that repeatedly flexes and extends (or otherwise moves) a targeted joint at a set speed and within a set motion range. The device supports the limb on adjustable pads and frames, and the motor drives a consistent movement pattern while the patient remains passive.

The primary purpose is to deliver repeatable, therapist-defined passive motion sessions with parameters that can be set and reproduced. In many facilities, CPM is used as a supplementary modality alongside supervised therapy, mobilization protocols, and broader rehabilitation plans. The clinical rationale and evidence base vary by procedure and patient group, so utilization often depends on local protocol, surgeon preference, and care pathway design.

In practical terms, most CPM units combine:

A mechanical frame with length and angle adjustments to match patient anatomy
A drive system (motor and gears) that creates a predictable movement cycle
A controller (integrated panel and/or remote) used to set ROM, speed, and time
Patient-contact components (pads, straps, footplates, hand supports depending on joint)

Some models also include features such as obstruction/load sensing, soft start/stop, programmable “protocol” presets, and clinician lockouts. Importantly, “passive” does not mean “unfelt”—patients may experience stretching sensations, pulling from dressings, or pressure at contact points. That is why communication, gradual initiation, and early-cycle observation matter, even when the patient is not actively moving the joint.

While knee CPM is the most widely recognized application, CPM devices can be joint-specific. Some are designed for hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist, or hand/finger motion. These devices are not interchangeable because the mechanical axis and support strategy differ by joint. From a procurement and safety standpoint, that means labeling, storage, and staff training should reflect which joint(s) a given model is intended to support.

Common clinical settings

Continuous passive motion CPM machine is most often encountered in:

Orthopedic wards and post-anesthesia care pathways (inpatient)
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation departments (outpatient)
Ambulatory surgery centers with structured discharge pathways
Home-care/DME (durable medical equipment) models where devices are rented for short-term use
Military, sports medicine, and high-volume arthroplasty programs (varies by region)

Additional settings where CPM may appear include selected trauma-rehabilitation pathways (where passive motion is protocolized), specialist upper-limb rehab programs, and post-acute facilities that manage a high volume of musculoskeletal recovery. In some hospitals, CPM devices are part of a centralized equipment pool; in others, they may be “owned” operationally by physiotherapy, orthopedics, or ward nursing teams.

From an operations perspective, CPM may be managed by nursing teams, physiotherapists/occupational therapists, or a shared equipment pool under central sterile/infection prevention oversight (even though CPM is typically not a sterile device). Clear responsibility matters: the team that orders CPM, the team that sets it up, and the team that monitors and documents it may differ by unit and shift, which is a common source of variability.

Key benefits in patient care and workflow (general)

Benefits attributed to a Continuous passive motion CPM machine can include:

Standardization: repeatable sessions with consistent parameters (range, speed, duration)
Scheduling flexibility: passive motion can occur outside therapist contact time, within facility rules
Patient throughput support: may help structure early post-op rehab routines when staffing is limited
Documentation support: some units track time used, cycles, or session logs (varies by manufacturer)
Controlled movement: provides a predictable mechanical pattern that can be adjusted incrementally

Additional workflow and patient-experience benefits sometimes cited by facilities include:

Dose consistency across shifts: settings can be handed over more reliably than manual techniques alone
Reduced manual handling burden: therapists and nurses may avoid prolonged repetitive manual ROM assistance (while still performing assessments and repositioning)
A structured “routine” for patients: some patients feel reassured by a visible, repeatable rehab activity, which may support engagement and adherence to the overall plan

It is important for clinical leaders and procurement teams to recognize that outcomes and value depend heavily on patient selection, procedure type, protocol adherence, staff training, and how CPM is integrated into an overall rehabilitation program. CPM can also introduce trade-offs: setup time, the need for correct alignment, accessory replacement costs, equipment availability constraints, and the cleaning workload required to safely share devices between patients.

When should I use Continuous passive motion CPM machine (and when should I not)?

Appropriate use cases (typical, protocol-driven)

Use of Continuous passive motion CPM machine is typically determined by surgeon or rehabilitation protocols, and may be considered in scenarios such as:

Post-operative orthopedic pathways where passive joint motion is part of the plan (commonly knee-focused)
Situations where a controlled, repetitive motion session is needed and active movement is limited
Patients who may benefit from structured passive motion sessions between supervised therapy visits
Short-term use during inpatient recovery when therapy time is constrained (depends on facility model)
Specific rehabilitation programs where CPM is used to complement, not replace, active therapy

Depending on the institution and procedure mix, CPM is also sometimes discussed in relation to pathways that aim to reduce early joint stiffness or support graded ROM exposure after certain orthopedic interventions. Examples often mentioned in practice include selected knee procedures and certain upper-limb rehab protocols, but the appropriateness of CPM can differ substantially by surgeon, facility, and patient risk profile. For governance teams, the key is not whether a procedure name appears on a “CPM list,” but whether there is a clear written protocol defining ROM limits, progression, monitoring, and stop criteria.

Whether CPM is appropriate, and which joint(s) to target, should be established by qualified clinicians using local guidelines and manufacturer instructions.

Situations where it may not be suitable

Continuous passive motion CPM machine may be unsuitable or deferred in situations such as:

When the patient cannot be positioned safely or comfortably in the device
When limb alignment cannot be achieved reliably due to anatomy, splints/braces, or bulky dressings
When patient tolerance is low and passive motion increases distress or prevents rest
When safe monitoring cannot be maintained (e.g., limited staff visibility, home environment constraints)
When the care plan prioritizes different rehabilitation strategies and CPM adds complexity without clear benefit

Other practical “non-fit” scenarios can include situations where the ordered ROM cannot be delivered without placing pressure on a wound site, where the patient is unable to understand or comply with safety instructions (and close supervision is not feasible), or where the device’s size/weight limits and adjustment ranges do not match the patient population. In home pathways, non-suitability may be driven by environmental constraints: limited space at the bedside, lack of safe power access, or absence of a trained caregiver to assist with setup and monitoring.

In many health systems, CPM use has become more selective over time; practice patterns vary widely across hospitals, countries, and payer models.

Safety cautions and contraindications (general, non-clinical)

Contraindications and cautions for Continuous passive motion CPM machine are manufacturer- and protocol-specific. Common themes that facilities consider include:

Mechanical stability: if passive motion could disrupt healing or hardware stability (protocol-defined)
Soft-tissue concerns: compromised skin integrity, vulnerable wound areas, or pressure-sensitive sites
Pain and swelling: unmanaged symptoms may limit safe tolerance and increase risk of non-adherence
Neurovascular risk: reduced protective sensation or inability to report discomfort increases supervision needs
Cognition and cooperation: confusion, agitation, or inability to follow instructions can increase entrapment risk
Device fit limits: pediatric, very small, or bariatric patients may exceed safe adjustment ranges (varies by manufacturer)

Facilities also commonly consider broader “risk amplifiers” that increase the need for monitoring, such as patients with significant neuropathy, communication barriers, involuntary movement disorders, or high anxiety that may lead to sudden repositioning during cycles. Another practical caution is strap-related pressure: patients on anticoagulation, with fragile skin, or with extensive bruising may require additional padding and more frequent skin checks to prevent pressure injury.

This is informational only. Clinical suitability must be determined by the treating team, aligned with facility policies and the device’s instructions for use.

What do I need before starting?

Required setup, environment, and accessories

Before deploying a Continuous passive motion CPM machine, most facilities standardize the following prerequisites:

A stable surface: bed, stretcher, or therapy plinth with adequate space for the device’s full travel
Reliable power: grounded outlet and safe cable routing; voltage/plug type compatibility varies by manufacturer
Patient-contact components: pads, straps, and any single-patient-use covers specified by the manufacturer
Positioning aids: pillows, wedges, and heel offloading supports as required by local protocol
A clean, ready-to-use unit: documented cleaning status and appropriate disinfectant compatibility
A plan for mobility and falls risk: CPM use should not create trip hazards or conflict with mobilization timing

In addition, many teams find it helpful to standardize an “accessory completeness” check, especially when devices are moved between units. Common items that are frequently missing in real-world use include straps of the correct length, pad inserts, locking pins, remotes, and joint-specific attachments (for example, a footplate for lower-limb devices). Missing accessories often lead to unsafe substitutions, poor limb support, or delays that reduce therapy adherence.

Accessories and consumables differ between brands and models. When purchasing, confirm what is included in the base package versus what is optional or recurring spend. It is also worth confirming practical details such as:

Whether the device is intended to be portable (carried between rooms) or cart-mounted
Whether a battery mode exists (and if so, expected runtime and charging workflow)
Whether the device requires joint-specific kits (knee vs hip vs shoulder) with different part numbers
Storage expectations (space, protective covers, and how to prevent dust accumulation on pads)

Training and competency expectations

Because CPM is powered hospital equipment that interfaces directly with the patient’s limb, training matters. A practical competency framework often includes:

Device setup and limb alignment (axis placement is a common failure point)
Parameter selection and safe progression (protocol-based)
Patient communication and monitoring requirements
Alarm recognition and response (if applicable)
Cleaning workflow and handling between patients
Documentation standards (settings used, duration, tolerance, adverse events)

Many facilities improve consistency by using a “super-user” model (a small group trained more deeply), combined with quick-reference setup guides at point of use. Training should also address cross-model differences: even small variations in control panel layout, angle display conventions, or locking mechanisms can increase setup errors when a hospital has a mixed fleet.

Training should be role-specific (nursing vs. physiotherapy vs. home-care support) and refreshed when device models change or when incident trends indicate a need. For home-use pathways, training may need to extend to caregivers and include practical instruction on safe positioning, stop controls, and cleaning expectations between daily sessions.

Pre-use checks and documentation

A simple pre-use checklist for Continuous passive motion CPM machine typically includes:

Visual inspection: cracks, bent frame elements, missing fasteners, worn pads, damaged straps
Electrical safety: intact power cord and plug, no exposed wires, no signs of fluid ingress
Functional movement check: smooth travel through a short test cycle without unusual noise
Controls and display: buttons responsive, screen readable, remote/hand control functional (if present)
Limits and stops: confirm end-of-range behavior as designed (varies by manufacturer)
Identification and tracking: asset tag present, service sticker current, device assigned in equipment log
Cleanliness: documented wipe-down completed and high-touch points visibly clean

Additional checks that many teams add (especially for shared equipment pools) include confirming that locking pins fully engage, that strap anchor points are intact, and that no temporary repairs (tape, improvised fasteners) are present. If a device offers a clinician lockout or “program lock,” confirm it is in the expected state before applying it to the patient to prevent accidental setting changes.

Documentation practices vary, but many facilities record the ordered protocol, the exact settings used, session start/stop times, patient tolerance, and any issues encountered. For quality improvement, some teams also document why a session was shortened or stopped (pain, equipment fault, alignment loss, patient request), which can be useful for targeting training and optimizing fleet availability.

How do I use it correctly (basic operation)?

Basic step-by-step workflow (typical)

The exact steps depend on the model, but a common workflow for Continuous passive motion CPM machine includes:

Confirm the order/protocol: joint, permitted range, session duration, and progression rules.
Prepare the environment: bed locked, adequate clearance, cords routed away from walking paths.
Explain the session: what the device will do, how to stop it, and what to report.
Inspect the limb and dressings: check for vulnerable skin, tubing/lines, and pressure-sensitive areas.
Adjust the device to patient size: length, thigh/calf supports, footplate alignment as applicable.
Align the joint axis: match the device’s mechanical pivot to the patient’s anatomical joint axis.
Secure supports and straps: snug but not constrictive; avoid placing straps over sensitive areas.
Set parameters: range of motion limits, speed, pause/dwell time, direction pattern.
Start slowly and observe: monitor the first cycles closely for tracking, comfort, and alignment drift.
Continue with periodic checks: per facility policy (more frequent for higher-risk patients).
End session and reassess: remove limb, inspect skin, document, and initiate cleaning workflow.

In day-to-day practice, the highest-impact steps are usually axis alignment, strap placement, and first-cycle observation. Many setup problems are not obvious until the limb starts moving and the patient’s leg (or arm) subtly migrates on the pads. Small alignment errors can translate into shear forces, discomfort, and ineffective motion delivery.

Operationally, CPM sessions also work best when coordinated with the broader care schedule. Examples include timing sessions around analgesia, ensuring the patient is not scheduled for imaging or transport mid-session, and planning so CPM does not conflict with mobilization (e.g., walking practice) or nursing care needs. Even in a home setting, simple planning—such as using CPM when a caregiver is present for setup and checks—can reduce risk.

Setup, calibration (if relevant), and operation

Some Continuous passive motion CPM machine models require a “home” position or a reference alignment before use. Others rely purely on mechanical adjustment and set-point entry. Calibration requirements can include:

Zeroing or setting a neutral position before selecting degrees of flexion/extension
Confirming the device’s displayed angle corresponds reasonably with limb position
Verifying end stops are reached smoothly without abrupt impact

Calibration and angle accuracy vary by manufacturer and model, and the displayed degrees may represent the device’s mechanism rather than a clinically measured joint angle. Facilities should treat the display as an operational reference and follow local clinical measurement practices where needed.

Where precise ROM matters to a pathway, some teams verify early sessions using a clinical measurement tool (such as a goniometer) and then use CPM settings consistently as a repeatable operational “dose.” If the device includes programmable presets, it can be helpful to define standardized presets aligned to internal protocols (for example, a “day 1” conservative range and speed) while still requiring clinician confirmation before use.

Typical settings and what they generally mean

Common user-adjustable parameters on a Continuous passive motion CPM machine include:

Range of motion (ROM): minimum and maximum angles (e.g., extension limit to flexion limit)
Speed or cycle rate: how fast the limb moves through the set ROM
Pause/dwell time: optional hold at end range to reduce “bounce” and improve comfort
Session duration: total runtime or target number of cycles (varies by manufacturer)
Ramp features: gradual increase of ROM during the session (available on some models)

Protocols vary widely. From a safety and governance standpoint, the critical point is that settings should be traceable to a documented order and applied consistently, with clear rules for adjustment and escalation when tolerance is poor.

From a practical usability perspective:

Speed is often a comfort lever: slower motion may reduce discomfort and allows staff to detect tracking problems early, while faster speeds can feel more “jarring” in sensitive patients.
End-range dwell can improve comfort for some patients and reduces mechanical “impact,” but it also changes the feel of the session and can affect patient tolerance.
ROM progression should be incremental and protocol-led. A common operational mistake is increasing ROM too quickly because “the device can do it,” even when the patient’s pain, swelling, or soft-tissue status suggests a slower progression is safer.

How do I keep the patient safe?

Safety practices and monitoring

Patient safety with Continuous passive motion CPM machine is primarily about preventing malalignment, pressure injury, entrapment, and unexpected movement-related discomfort. Common safety practices include:

Correct axis alignment: poor alignment can cause shear, discomfort, and ineffective motion delivery
Skin protection: pad bony prominences; avoid strap pressure on fragile skin or dressings
Line management: ensure IV lines, drains, and catheters are routed to prevent pulling during motion
Neurovascular awareness: observe for unusual color change, swelling, numbness reports, or cold extremity
Regular checks: confirm the limb remains centered as the device cycles (migration is common)
Accessible stop control: ensure staff and patient know how to stop the device quickly

Additional real-world safety considerations often include pressure distribution at the heel and behind the knee (or similar high-risk contact points for other joints). Even when straps are correctly placed, prolonged contact and repeated movement can create friction or localized pressure. Short, structured checks early in the session (for example, after the first 3–5 cycles) can catch migration before it becomes a skin injury.

Monitoring intensity should match risk. Patients with limited sensation, communication barriers, or high anxiety typically require closer observation, especially during initiation. For higher-risk patients, some facilities adopt a simple rule: do not start CPM unless the patient can reliably stop it or staff can respond quickly. In home settings, this often translates into ensuring the remote is within reach, the patient understands stop/start, and a caregiver can assist if the patient cannot reposition independently.

Alarm handling and human factors

Not all CPM units have sophisticated alarms. Where alarms exist, they may relate to load/obstruction, motor overcurrent, travel error, or system faults (varies by manufacturer). Human factors that frequently contribute to incidents include:

Confusing the “direction” or ROM limits and starting with excessive movement range
Placing the limb off-center, creating torsion or pressure points during cycling
Over-tightening straps, causing pressure injury or reduced circulation
Failing to secure the bed/stretcher, leading to device shift during operation
Poor handover between departments (different settings, different assumptions)

In addition to these common issues, mixed fleets (multiple CPM models in one facility) can increase error risk because controls and menus are not standardized. Facilities reduce risk by standardizing labeling (e.g., “knee CPM only”), using quick-reference cards, and implementing a “two-person setup” for high-risk patients or unfamiliar staff.

Some institutions also reduce human-factor risk by standardizing a “default start” behavior (for example, low speed and conservative ROM until the first-cycle check is completed) and by using simple visual cues on the device (such as color-coded strap positions or axis alignment markers) where permitted by the manufacturer.

Follow facility protocols and manufacturer guidance

Continuous passive motion CPM machine is regulated medical equipment, and safe operation depends on:

Manufacturer instructions for use (IFU), including maximum patient weight, intended joints, and accessory rules
Facility policies for patient selection, monitoring intervals, and documentation
Biomedical engineering maintenance schedules and electrical safety testing requirements

When local practice conflicts with the IFU, governance teams typically resolve the discrepancy through formal risk assessment and documented policy, rather than informal workarounds. From a quality standpoint, it is also useful to define who is authorized to change settings, how changes are documented, and when to escalate concerns (for example, repeated intolerance at a certain ROM).

How do I interpret the output?

Types of outputs/readings

Unlike physiologic monitors, a Continuous passive motion CPM machine generally provides operational outputs rather than clinical measurements. Depending on the model, outputs may include:

Set and current ROM values (degrees)
Speed or cycles per minute
Session time remaining or elapsed time
Cycle count (number of repetitions)
Usage history or compliance logs (available on some devices)
Error codes or fault indicators

Some models also provide additional operational information such as pause time at end range, direction mode, or a record of interruptions (stop/start events). A small subset of devices may display load/torque indicators or obstruction events, but the meaning and reliability of these metrics vary and should be interpreted as device-operational data rather than direct clinical measurements.

Some devices are intentionally simple with minimal data outputs. Others integrate with accessories or digital logging features. Connectivity and data export, where available, vary by manufacturer and may be limited in clinical usefulness without workflow integration.

How clinicians typically interpret them (general)

In practice, CPM outputs are often used to:

Verify that ordered settings were applied (governance and audit)
Track session completion and tolerance over time (operational adherence)
Support handovers between shifts or between inpatient and home-care teams
Identify patterns (e.g., repeated stoppages, poor tolerance at certain ranges)

Clinicians generally interpret CPM data as process information, not as definitive evidence of recovery. Clinical outcomes are usually assessed with functional measures, pain/tolerance reports, wound status, and clinician-led range-of-motion assessment.

For documentation, some teams use a simple standardized line that captures key operational parameters, for example: “CPM knee: ROM X–Y degrees, speed setting Z, dwell N seconds, total time T minutes, tolerance and skin check documented.” Standardizing this language can improve handover quality and reduce ambiguity when multiple staff members share responsibility.

Common pitfalls and limitations

Key limitations to keep in mind:

Displayed degrees may not equal true joint angles due to alignment and anatomy differences
Cycle counts and time logs do not guarantee correct limb positioning throughout the session
Data may reset when power is disconnected or settings are changed (varies by manufacturer)
In home-use pathways, adherence data may not be reliably captured or reported back to the hospital
Over-reliance on device logs can distract from direct assessment of comfort, skin integrity, and function

Another common pitfall is assuming that “more ROM” or “longer sessions” automatically equal better outcomes. CPM is a tool that delivers a mechanical movement dose; whether that dose is appropriate depends on the clinical plan and patient tolerance. From an operational safety perspective, it is better to prioritize correct alignment, skin protection, and consistent adherence to an approved protocol than to maximize degrees or runtime.

For administrators and quality teams, the safest approach is to use CPM outputs as supportive documentation while maintaining primary reliance on clinical assessment and protocol compliance.

What if something goes wrong?

A practical troubleshooting checklist

When a Continuous passive motion CPM machine behaves unexpectedly, a structured approach helps reduce patient risk and equipment downtime:

Stop the device using the stop key/remote; confirm movement has fully ceased.
Assess the patient first: discomfort, limb position, skin pinching, strap pressure, anxiety.
Check for obstruction: bedding caught in hinges, tubing tangled, footplate contacting bed frame.
Re-check alignment: confirm the joint axis and limb supports have not migrated.
Verify settings: ROM limits appropriate; no accidental change to direction or speed.
Inspect power and connections: plug seated, cord intact, no trip damage, no fluid exposure.
Restart only if safe: if the issue was positional and resolved, observe closely for several cycles.
Document the event: what happened, settings, patient response, and actions taken.

Additional practical checks that often resolve issues include confirming that mechanical locks and quick-release pins are fully engaged, checking that the remote cable (if present) is not strained or partially disconnected, and ensuring the device is not “stuck” against a bed frame or side rail during extension. If the movement becomes jerky or noisy, it may indicate a mechanical alignment problem (such as a support arm at an extreme angle) or a failing component—both should prompt caution and escalation rather than repeated restarts.

In home pathways, troubleshooting should be simplified. Many providers instruct patients and caregivers to stop the unit, remove the limb safely, and contact the supplier rather than attempting repeated resets, especially if any unusual noise, heat, or error codes occur.

When to stop use

Facilities commonly stop CPM use and reassess when:

The patient reports sharp, escalating, or unusual discomfort during the cycle
Skin shows new pressure marks, blistering, or signs of shear at contact points
The limb cannot be kept aligned despite repositioning
The device repeatedly stops, jerks, grinds, or produces burning/electrical odors
An error code persists after a safe reset (per manufacturer guidance)
Any fluid spills onto the control unit or motor housing

Stopping the device is a safety action, not a failure. The next step is typically clinical reassessment and equipment evaluation.

It is also reasonable to stop and reassess when the patient becomes significantly distressed, fatigued, or unable to cooperate with safe positioning, or when the clinical situation changes (for example, urgent transport, a new dressing requirement, or new neurovascular concerns). Clear stop criteria reduce uncertainty for frontline staff, especially outside regular therapy hours.

When to escalate to biomedical engineering or the manufacturer

Escalate to biomedical engineering (or the contracted service partner) when:

Electrical safety is in question (frayed cord, intermittent power, tingling sensation reports)
Mechanical integrity issues appear (cracked frame, loose pivot, failed end-stop behavior)
Recurrent error codes occur or the device fails self-checks (if available)
Unusual noise, overheating, or inconsistent movement is observed
Accessories cannot be secured reliably (strap anchors failing, pad mounts broken)
Preventive maintenance is overdue or service history is unclear

Escalate to the manufacturer when parts availability, software/firmware, recalls, or IFU clarifications are needed. For procurement teams, a clear escalation pathway is a core element of vendor evaluation.

From a lifecycle perspective, it can be useful to track recurring issues (for example, repeated strap failures or a specific error code trend) and feed that data into procurement decisions and service contract reviews. Biomedical teams may also want clarity on whether service documentation, diagnostics, and replacement parts are available to in-house staff or restricted to authorized service partners, as this directly affects downtime and total cost of ownership.

Infection control and cleaning of Continuous passive motion CPM machine

Cleaning principles for CPM equipment

Continuous passive motion CPM machine typically contacts intact skin and sometimes sits near dressings or post-operative sites. From an infection prevention perspective, it is usually treated as non-critical medical equipment, meaning cleaning and low-level disinfection are common requirements (facility policies vary).

Core principles include:

Clean first (remove visible soil), then disinfect using an approved product and contact time
Focus on patient-contact pads/straps and high-touch controls
Prevent fluid ingress into motor housings and control panels
Avoid damaging plastics, foams, and touchscreens with incompatible chemicals

Always follow the manufacturer’s compatibility guidance for disinfectants. If compatibility is not publicly stated, treat it as “Varies by manufacturer” and confirm through official documentation.

In practice, cleaning performance is often influenced by design details: textured plastic, padding seams, hook-and-loop fasteners, and hinge crevices can all trap residue. Facilities that share CPM devices between patients often benefit from keeping spare straps and pads available, allowing a complete set to be swapped out for reprocessing while keeping the base unit moving through workflow. Where pads are foam-based, repeated chemical exposure can accelerate cracking or hardening; routine inspection helps prevent a cleaning problem from becoming a skin-injury risk.

Disinfection vs. sterilization (general)

Cleaning removes dirt and organic material and is the first step in any workflow.
Disinfection reduces microbial load on surfaces; this is the most common requirement for CPM.
Sterilization eliminates all microorganisms and is not typically applied to CPM machines because they are not designed for sterilization methods (heat, steam, or chemical immersion).

If a facility requires higher-level processing due to patient population risk, this is usually managed through barriers, single-patient accessories, or dedicated devices rather than sterilizing the base unit.

If CPM components come into contact with non-intact skin or significant wound drainage, facilities often manage this by using protective barriers, dedicated accessories, or quarantining the unit for enhanced cleaning per local infection prevention guidance. The approach should be policy-led and consistent with the device’s materials and IFU.

High-touch points to prioritize

Common high-touch points on a Continuous passive motion CPM machine include:

Control panel buttons and touchscreen areas
Hand remote controls and cables
Adjustment knobs, levers, and locking pins
Handles and carry points used by staff
Straps, buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners, and padding seams
Frame surfaces near the limb supports and footplate

Additional high-touch areas sometimes missed include the power cord (especially near the plug), underside frame rails that are handled during transport, and any storage bag or carry case used for home delivery models. Cleaning checklists that explicitly include these items tend to reduce variability.

Straps and pads may be reusable or single-patient-use depending on product design and facility policy.

Example cleaning workflow (non-brand-specific)

A typical between-patient workflow may look like:

Remove from patient area safely: power off and unplug before cleaning.
Don appropriate PPE per facility policy.
Discard disposables: single-use covers or barriers as applicable.
Pre-clean: wipe off visible soil using a facility-approved detergent wipe.
Disinfect: apply approved disinfectant wipes/sprays to all contact and high-touch points, respecting wet contact time.
Detail areas: seams, buckles, and hinges where residue accumulates.
Dry and inspect: ensure surfaces are dry, intact, and free of residue that could irritate skin.
Functional check: brief movement test after fully dry (per local policy).
Label/record: document cleaning in the equipment log or tracking system.

For home-use pathways, consider providing simplified instructions and ensuring the return process includes a documented decontamination step before reissue.

Some facilities also build in a “clean storage” step—placing cleaned units in a designated area or applying a tag/seal indicating cleaning status and date/time. This can reduce uncertainty on busy wards and helps avoid re-cleaning or, worse, accidental reuse without proper processing.

Medical Device Companies & OEMs

Manufacturer vs. OEM: what it means in practice

In medical equipment supply chains, the “manufacturer” is typically the legal entity responsible for regulatory compliance, labeling, quality management, and post-market surveillance. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) may design or produce components (or entire devices) that are then branded and sold by another company.

For Continuous passive motion CPM machine procurement, OEM relationships matter because they can influence:

Consistency of build quality across private-label versions
Availability of spare parts and consumables over the product lifecycle
Service documentation, training materials, and repair authorization pathways
Software/firmware support and compatibility with replacement components
Recall and safety notice communication clarity (who contacts the hospital, and how)

From a risk perspective, procurement and biomedical engineering teams often prefer transparent documentation of who manufactures the device, where it is manufactured, and who is responsible for service and vigilance reporting in the country of use.

In many regulatory systems, there may also be additional named entities beyond “manufacturer” and “OEM,” such as an authorized representative, importer, or local registration holder. For hospitals, this matters because it can affect who provides official IFUs in the local language, who receives and forwards field safety notices, and who is accountable for post-market reporting.

How OEM relationships impact quality, support, and service

Well-managed OEM relationships can improve reliability and reduce cost, but they can also introduce challenges if responsibilities are unclear. Practical questions to ask include:

Who holds the regulatory registration in your country?
Who supplies official spare parts, and what are lead times?
Are service manuals and diagnostic codes available to in-house biomed teams?
Are consumables proprietary, and what is the expected annual spend?
What is the warranty scope, and what actions void it?

These questions apply whether you buy directly from a manufacturer or through a distributor.

A related operational issue is private-label similarity: two devices can look nearly identical yet have different part numbers, software versions, or accessory compatibility. That can complicate inventory management, cleaning accessory standardization, and service. Procurement teams often mitigate this by standardizing on fewer models where possible and requiring clear documentation of accessory interchangeability and service pathways.

Top 5 World Best Medical Device Companies / Manufacturers

The following are example industry leaders in global medical devices (not CPM-specific). Inclusion here is not a claim that each company manufactures a Continuous passive motion CPM machine; portfolios change and vary by region.

Johnson & Johnson (MedTech)
Widely recognized as a diversified healthcare organization with major presence in surgical and orthopedic categories through its medtech businesses. Known for global scale, established regulatory infrastructure, and broad hospital relationships. Procurement teams often encounter its products in operating rooms and perioperative pathways that indirectly shape rehabilitation demand.
Stryker
Commonly associated with orthopedics, surgical technologies, and hospital infrastructure equipment in many markets. The company is often perceived as strong in clinician-facing training and procedural ecosystems, which can influence post-operative rehab workflows. Product availability and service structure vary by country and channel.
Zimmer Biomet
Frequently referenced in orthopedic reconstruction and related procedural areas across multiple regions. Its reputation is closely tied to joint replacement and musculoskeletal care pathways where rehabilitation equipment decisions may be considered. As with many global firms, distribution and after-sales support depend on local subsidiaries and partners.
Smith+Nephew
Known for a footprint in orthopedics, sports medicine, and wound management categories. Often present in hospital purchasing discussions linked to surgical pathways and recovery programs. Global coverage is broad