Application of a vibrating device for the prevention of flexion contracture after total knee arthroplasty

144 patients scheduled for total knee arthroplasty were randomized to receive continuous passive motion therapy either with or without a novel heel vibration and rest treatment device. This was done to determine whether heel vibration and rest devices help reduce the incidence of flexion contracture in the short-term following total knee arthroplasty. Lateral X-rays, along with computer-based methods, were used to measure the main outcome. Results indicated that there were significantly more patients in the combination therapy group that attained full knee extension, and therefore fewer patients who experienced flexion contracture.