Riassunto dello studio

One hundred seventy-five patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation following total knee replacement were randomized to receive either continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy partially replacing group physiotherapy (n=87) or standard group physiotherapy alone (n=88). The primary outcome of interest was the Staffelstein Score. Secondary outcomes included the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), range of motion (ROM), pain (VAS), and return to work. Outcomes were assessed at admission, day 10, discharge (day 21), and at 4 months postoperatively. Overall, the results of the study revealed no significant differences between groups for the primary outcome, confirming non-inferiority of CPM within the pre-defined margin. CPM showed comparable improvements in all secondary outcomes and even greater long-term gains in OKS. These findings suggest CPM can effectively supplement physiotherapy in settings with limited therapist availability.