EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS PASSIVE MOTION ON THE EDEMATOUS HANDS OF 2 PERSONS WITH FLACCID HEMIPLEGIA

Objectives. This study evaluated the effect of the use of a continuous passive motion device for the edematous hands of two persons with flaccid hemiplegia. Method. The subjects were both 1 month post-cerebrovascular accident with left-sided hemiplegia. Each subject's routine therapy program was maintained throughout this ABA design study. During the first week, baseline data were gathered, during the second week the intervention was provided (2 hr of continuous passive motion device use), and during the third week data were gathered with treatment withdrawn. Edema was measured with a hand volumeter and finger circumference. Results. The continuous passive motion device had an effect in reducing edema in the hands of the two subjects. Conclusion. The continuous passive motion device is a readily available tool that could enhance the treatment of edematous hands of persons with flaccid hemiplegia by offering a contribution to already established treatment protocols. Further research is needed, however, to establish guidelines for use.