Use of continuous passive motion in pediatric orthopedics.

Continuous passive motion (CPM) was used to maintain or gain hip and knee range of motion in 18 postoperative or postinjury pediatric orthopedic patients. Continuous passive motion was started in the early postoperative period and augmented with physical therapy. The device was well-tolerated in 16 of the 18 patients. In all but one, motion was improved with a progressive decrease in joint pain. In these patients, CPM was found to be a valuable tool in rehabilitation, and did not interfere with traction, open wounds, nursing care, nor external fixation devices.