Which of the following is NOT a therapeutic effect of continuous passive motion (CPM)?

• A. Increase ROM
• B. Reduce edema by assisting venous and lymphatic return
• C. Stimulate tissue healing
• D. Promote bone healing

Answer: (D)

The main idea is understanding what CPM can and cannot do in rehab after injury or surgery. Continuous passive motion helps maintain joint mobility and supports soft-tissue healing. Its rhythmic movement aids in increasing range of motion over time, and the cyclic motion acts as a pump that enhances venous and lymphatic return, helping to reduce edema around the joint. It can also support tissue healing by improving perfusion and guiding collagen remodeling in soft tissues. However, bone healing relies on fracture stability and appropriate mechanical loading, not the joint motion provided by CPM. So promoting bone healing is not a direct therapeutic effect of CPM.