Understanding CPT Code 97140 in Physical Therapy

Manual therapy is a cornerstone of physical therapy, helping patients manage pain, restore mobility, and recover from injuries. Physical therapists use various techniques, one of the most common being CPT code 97140. 

This code is essential for billing and documenting hands-on therapeutic techniques that focus on improving musculoskeletal function. 

Understanding how CPT 97140 works and how it’s used in physical therapy can help ensure proper reimbursement and quality care for patients.

What is CPT Code 97140?

CPT code 97140 is used for manual therapy techniques provided by a physical therapist. These techniques include joint mobilization, manipulation, and soft tissue mobilization. They are used to address musculoskeletal issues like pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. The goal of these treatments is to relieve discomfort, improve mobility, and restore function to affected areas of the body. This code covers one-on-one therapeutic sessions where the physical therapist uses their hands to manipulate or mobilize the patient’s joints and soft tissues to alleviate symptoms and enhance movement.

A study published in PubMed found that manual therapy techniques, including joint mobilization and soft tissue manipulation, significantly reduce pain and improve physical function in patients with musculoskeletal disorders. This underscores the effectiveness of CPT 97140 treatments in improving patient outcomes, particularly in conditions like arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries, and post-surgical recovery.

How is CPT Code 97140 Used?

CPT 97140 is used by physical therapists as part of a tailored treatment plan to address specific patient needs. It involves a combination of techniques aimed at improving joint and soft tissue function. 

Joint mobilization helps restore motion to stiff joints through gradual movement, while joint manipulation, a more forceful technique, is used to adjust the joints and provide immediate relief. Soft tissue mobilization, including techniques like massage and myofascial release, is used to alleviate muscle tightness and improve flexibility.

These manual therapy techniques are commonly applied to treat conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, and post-surgical recovery. The ultimate goal of using CPT 97140 is to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and enhance the patient’s overall functional ability, leading to improved quality of life.

When is CPT 97140 Used?

CPT code 97140 is used in a range of clinical scenarios where manual therapy can significantly improve a patient’s condition. It is commonly applied to treat:

• Chronic pain conditions: Conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia benefit from joint mobilization and soft tissue techniques, which help reduce pain and improve mobility.
• Post-surgical recovery: After surgeries like joint replacements or spinal surgeries, manual therapy is used to restore range of motion, reduce stiffness, and promote healing.
• Musculoskeletal injuries: Injuries such as sprains, strains, or ligament tears often lead to reduced flexibility and movement. Manual therapy helps restore function and alleviate discomfort.
• Joint dysfunctions: For limited range of motion caused by soft tissue restrictions, joint mobilization is applied to improve flexibility and movement.
• Neurological conditions: Manual therapy is essential in stroke rehabilitation, assisting with neuromuscular reeducation and improving motor control and muscle function.

Clear documentation of the manual techniques, affected body areas, and patient progress is crucial for accurate billing, compliance, and ensuring timely reimbursement.

Billing and Documentation Considerations

To ensure correct reimbursement, therapists must document the details of the manual therapy session, including the techniques used and the time spent on each. Each unit billed typically corresponds to 15 minutes of therapy, so it’s important to specify the session duration. 

CPT code 97140 should also be tied directly to the patient’s condition and treatment goals to establish the medical necessity of the service. Clear, accurate documentation helps avoid claim denials and ensures that the therapy is aligned with the patient’s treatment plan.

Conclusion

CPT 97140 is essential in physical therapy, enabling therapists to address a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions through hands-on techniques that improve mobility, alleviate pain, and restore function. Proper use and documentation of this code not only ensure accurate reimbursement but also enhance the quality of care provided to patients.

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