Revolutionary Off-Grid Solution Provides Continuous Passive Motion Therapy Without Electricity

In a groundbreaking development for knee rehabilitation, researchers at IIT Ropar have introduced a patented, entirely mechanical device designed to make continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy both affordable and accessible. The patented machine (No. 553407), named the Completely Mechanical Passive Motion Machine for Knee Rehabilitation, offers an effective solution for patients recovering from knee surgeries, especially those in areas with limited access to electricity and advanced medical equipment.

Unlike traditional motorized CPM machines, which rely on electricity and are costly, IIT Ropar’s device uses a simple piston and pulley mechanism. As the user pulls a handle, the machine stores air, allowing for a smooth, controlled range of motion that aids knee rehabilitation without the need for motors or batteries. This design makes the device portable, lightweight, and entirely off-grid, ideal for use in rural and remote locations where electricity may be unreliable.

This mechanical CPM machine offers a much-needed alternative for patients who cannot access or afford conventional electric machines. Patients can now use the device at home, significantly reducing hospital stays and in-person therapy sessions. Continuous passive motion is essential for knee surgery recovery, helping to improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and accelerate healing, and this new device opens up the therapy to a broader range of patients.

“This device has the potential to revolutionize knee rehabilitation in India, where access to advanced medical technology can be limited, especially in rural areas,” said Dr. Abhishek Tiwari, the lead researcher. Dr. Tiwari’s team, including Mr. Suraj Bhan Mundotiya and Dr. Samir C. Roy, designed the machine to be an affordable, eco-friendly solution. “It’s a low-cost, sustainable device that aids recovery and also reduces the environmental impact of motorized devices,” he added.

This innovation is expected to make a significant impact not only within India but globally, particularly in regions where healthcare resources are limited. The IIT Ropar team’s breakthrough in affordable medical technology marks a new era in post-surgical knee rehabilitation, offering hope to countless patients in need of accessible and effective therapy solutions.