Physical therapy is an integral part of healthcare, dedicated to restoring movement and function for individuals across all age groups.
Within this discipline, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes play a crucial role as standardized labels for the myriad treatments delivered by therapists.
In this guide, we’ll the fundamental CPT codes utilized in physical therapy, providing valuable insights into the array of interventions aimed at enhancing patients’ well-being.
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What are CPT Codes?
When it comes to physical therapy, there’s a lot more than meets the eye. Therapists work tirelessly to help people regain their mobility, strength, and independence after injuries or illnesses.
But did you know that behind the scenes, there’s a system in place to help keep track of all the different treatments they provide? It’s called Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes.
CPT codes are essentially a set of numbers assigned to different medical procedures and services.
They serve as a standardized way to communicate what treatments were given to a patient, which is crucial for things like insurance billing and keeping accurate medical records.
Understanding these codes is essential for physical therapists to ensure they’re accurately documenting the care they provide and getting reimbursed for their services.
And for patients, it can provide insight into the types of treatments they’re receiving and why they’re important for their recovery.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of these codes and understand how they play a crucial role in the world of physical therapy.
1. 97110 – Therapeutic Exercises
CPT 97110 encompasses therapeutic exercises designed to improve strength, endurance, range of motion, and flexibility.
Therapists design exercises to individual needs, targeting specific muscle groups and functional goals.
2. 97112 – Neuromuscular Reeducation
Neuromuscular reeducation focuses on improving movement patterns, balance, coordination, and proprioception.
Therapists use various techniques to facilitate neuromuscular control and enhance functional performance.
3. 97116 – Gait Training
Gait training has activities aimed at improving walking function, including exercises to enhance balance, coordination, and stride mechanics.
It may incorporate tasks such as walking on different surfaces or navigating stairs.
4. 97140 – Manual Therapy Techniques
Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue mobilization, and manipulation are included in manual therapy techniques.
These techniques alleviate pain, improve joint mobility, and optimize tissue function.
5. 97530 – Therapeutic Activities
Therapeutic activities involve dynamic tasks aimed at improving functional performance.
These may include activities such as balance training, coordination drills, and task-specific exercises tailored to individual needs.
6. 97750 – Physical Performance Test or Measurement
This code is used for conducting physical performance tests or measurements to assess musculoskeletal function, functional capacity, and movement patterns.
Therapists use standardized assessments to evaluate progress and guide treatment planning.
7. 97150 – Group Therapeutic Procedures
These procedures provide therapeutic interventions to multiple patients simultaneously.
It allows for peer support, social interaction, and collective motivation in achieving rehabilitation goals.
8. 97760 – Orthotic Management and Training
Orthotic management involves the assessment, fitting, and training related to orthotic devices such as braces or splints.
Therapists educate patients on the proper use and maintenance of orthotic devices to support functional activities.
9. 97761 – Prosthetic Training
Prosthetic training focuses on educating individuals on the use of artificial limbs or prosthetic devices.
Therapists guide patients through exercises and activities to optimize prosthetic function and promote independence.
10. 97129 – Therapeutic Interventions, Cognitive Skills Development
This code encompasses interventions aimed at improving cognitive skills, such as attention, memory, problem-solving, and executive function.
Therapists utilize cognitive training exercises to enhance functional cognition and promote independence in daily activities.
11. 97139 – Unlisted Therapeutic Procedure
Used for therapeutic procedures not otherwise specified by other codes, such as specialized interventions like Kinesio taping or aquatic therapy.
13. 97122 – Manual Therapy Techniques
This code specifically denotes joint mobilization or manipulation techniques aimed at improving joint range of motion and function.
14. 97164 – Physical Therapy Reevaluation
It is utilized when a physical therapist needs to reassess a patient’s condition and progress during treatment.
It involves updating the treatment plan based on the evaluation findings.
15. 97542 – Wheelchair Management
Wheelchair management encompasses the assessment, fitting, and training related to wheelchair use.
This includes evaluating the patient’s mobility needs, selecting an appropriate wheelchair, ensuring proper fit, and providing training on wheelchair operation and maintenance.
16. 97035 – Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy utilizes high-frequency sound waves to penetrate deep into tissues, promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain.
It is commonly used to treat conditions such as tendonitis, muscle strains, and joint inflammation.
17. 97535 – Self-Care/Home Management Training
This code is used for educating patients on techniques to manage daily activities independently at home.
It may include teaching tasks such as dressing, grooming, bathing, and household chores to promote independence and safety.
18. 97161, 97162, 97163 – Physical Therapy Evaluation (Low, Moderate, High Complexity)
These codes represent initial evaluations performed by physical therapists to assess patients’ conditions.
The complexity varies based on the depth of patient history, the complexity of clinical decision-making, and the level of patient management required.
19. 97165, 97166, 97167 – Occupational Therapy Evaluation (Low, Moderate, High Complexity)
Similar to physical therapy evaluations, these codes represent initial evaluations performed by occupational therapists to assess patients’ conditions.
20. 97168 – Occupational Therapy Reevaluation
This code is used for reevaluating a patient’s condition and progress during occupational therapy treatment.
It involves updating the treatment plan based on the evaluation findings.
21. 97010 – Hot or Cold Packs Therapy
Hot or cold pack therapy involves the application of either heat or cold packs to reduce pain and inflammation and promote tissue healing.
It is commonly used as a modality to complement other therapeutic interventions.
22. 97169 – Athletic Training Evaluation
Athletic training evaluation involves initial evaluation of athletes by athletic trainers to assess musculoskeletal injuries, and functional limitations, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to the athlete’s specific needs.
23. 97170 – Athletic Training Reevaluation
Used for reevaluating athletes’ conditions and progress during athletic training treatment, this code ensures that adjustments to the treatment plan are made as necessary to optimize recovery and performance.
24. 97172, 97173, 97174 – Athletic Training (Low, Moderate, High Complexity)
These codes denote athletic training services provided to athletes at varying levels of complexity based on the severity of their injuries and the complexity of the rehabilitation required to return them to peak performance.
25. 97175 – Athletic Training, Reconditioning
This involves providing reconditioning programs to athletes aimed at improving strength, endurance, and performance following injury rehabilitation.
These programs focus on restoring athletes to their pre-injury levels of fitness and function.
26. 97546 – Work Hardening/Conditioning Program
Work hardening/conditioning programs are comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed to help individuals safely return to work following injury or illness.
They focus on improving physical strength, endurance, and functional capacity specific to job-related tasks and demands.
27. 97762 – Checkout for Orthotic/Prosthetic Use, Established Patient
This code is used for assessing and adjusting orthotic or prosthetic devices for established patients.
It involves follow-up visits to ensure the proper fit, function, and effectiveness of the device over time.
28. 97533 – Sensory Integration Techniques
Sensory integration techniques involve activities aimed at improving sensory processing and integration to enhance functional performance.
These interventions are commonly used in occupational therapy to address sensory processing disorders and improve daily functioning.
29. 97547 – Work/Job Site Analysis
This code is used for evaluating the physical demands of a job or work site to identify potential hazards, recommend modifications, and develop strategies to prevent workplace injuries.
It involves assessing ergonomic factors, task demands, and environmental conditions to promote safety and reduce the risk of injury.
30. 97022 – Whirlpool Therapy
Whirlpool therapy involves the use of whirlpool baths or tanks to deliver therapeutic heat or cold to injured or painful areas of the body.
It can help to reduce pain, relax muscles, and improve circulation, making it beneficial for various musculoskeletal conditions.
31. 97537 – Community/Work Reintegration Training
This CPT code involves training patients to reintegrate into their community or workplace after injury or illness.
It focuses on vocational tasks and environmental modifications to facilitate a successful return to daily activities and work responsibilities.
32. 97763 – Orthotic and Prosthetic Management and Training
Comprehensive management and training related to orthotic and prosthetic devices, including assessment, fitting, adjustments, and patient education.
It ensures that individuals using orthotic or prosthetic devices receive optimal support and function in their daily activities.
33. 97545 – Standing Tolerance Training
This code is used for training individuals to tolerate prolonged periods of standing, focusing on improving endurance, weight-bearing capacity, and postural control.
It is beneficial for individuals who need to stand for extended periods as part of their daily activities or work requirements.
34. 97012 – Mechanical Traction Therapy
This code is used to bill for the application of mechanical energy to provide relief in one or more areas of the body.
It is often utilized to improve circulation, decrease swelling, relieve pain, deliver medication, or reduce muscle spasms in conjunction with other therapeutic procedures.
35. 97014 – Electric Stimulation Therapy
Electric stimulation therapy involves the application of electrical energy to provide relief in one or more areas of the body while the patient is not actively attending.
It is used to improve circulation, decrease swelling, relieve pain, deliver medication, or reduce muscle spasms in conjunction with other treatment modalities.
36. 97016 – Vasopneumatic Device Therapy
This code is used for the application of a vasopneumatic device, which combines compression and cold therapy to reduce swelling and inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing.
37. 97018 – Paraffin Bath Therapy
Paraffin bath therapy involves immersing body parts, typically hands or feet, in warm paraffin wax to reduce pain and tenderness while maintaining muscle strength.
It is commonly used in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis and joint stiffness.
38. 97024 – Diathermy
Diathermy is a therapeutic modality that involves the use of high-frequency electromagnetic energy to generate heat within tissues.
It is used to promote tissue healing, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve joint mobility.
39. 97026 – Infrared Therapy
Infrared therapy utilizes infrared light to penetrate deep into tissues, promoting healing, decreasing swelling, improving motion, reducing pain, and decreasing muscle spasms.
40. 97028 – Ultraviolet Therapy
Ultraviolet therapy involves the use of ultraviolet light to decrease swelling, promote wound healing, improve motion, reduce pain, and decrease muscle spasms.
41. 97032 – Electrical Stimulation
This code refers to the use of manual electrical stimulation to decrease swelling, promote wound healing, improve motion, reduce pain, and decrease muscle spasms.
42. 97033 – Electric Current Therapy (Iontophoresis)
Electric current therapy, commonly known as Iontophoresis, involves the use of a low-level electrical current to deliver medication through the skin for therapeutic purposes, such as pain relief or reduction of inflammation.
43. 97155 – Adaptive Behavior Treatment by Protocol (Modification)
It involves the modifications that are made to the standard protocol for adaptive behavior treatment.
Therapists design interventions to meet the individual needs of the patient or adjust the treatment plan based on progress or changing circumstances.
44. 97156 – Family Adaptive Behavior Treatment Guidance
Family adaptive behavior treatment guidance involves providing education, support, and guidance to families of individuals receiving adaptive behavior treatment.
It aims to empower families with the knowledge and skills needed to support the individual’s progress and well-being outside of therapy sessions.
45. 97157 – Multi-family Adaptive Behavior Treatment Guidance
Similar to 97156, this code involves providing guidance and support to multiple families of individuals receiving adaptive behavior treatment.
It may include group sessions or workshops aimed at promoting collaboration, sharing experiences, and building a supportive community among families.
46. 97034 – Contrast Bath Therapy
Contrast bath therapy involves alternating immersion of body parts in warm and cold water to promote circulation, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain.
47. 97036 – Hydrotherapy (Hubbard Tank)
Hydrotherapy, often referred to as a Hubbard Tank, involves the therapeutic use of water for treating various medical conditions.
It typically includes exercises or treatments performed in a specially designed tank or pool filled with warm water.
Hydrotherapy can help improve mobility, relieve pain, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being.
48. 97113 – Aquatic Therapy/Exercises
Aquatic therapy or exercises involve performing therapeutic activities in a pool or other aquatic environment.
The buoyancy and resistance of water provide support and resistance, relieving stress on joints and allowing for an increased range of motion.
Each session typically lasts for 15 minutes and focuses on improving mobility, strength, and flexibility while reducing pain and inflammation.
49. 97151 – Behavioral Identification Assessment
For conducting assessments to identify and evaluate behavioral issues or disorders this code is used.
It involves gathering information through interviews, observations, and standardized assessments to diagnose and develop treatment plans for behavioral conditions.
50. 97153 – Adaptive Behavior Treatment by Protocol
Adaptive behavior treatment involves providing structured interventions to individuals with developmental disabilities or behavioral challenges.
This code specifically refers to delivering treatment based on a predetermined protocol or set of guidelines.
51. 97154 – Group Adaptive Behavior Treatment by Protocol
Similar to 97153, this code denotes providing adaptive behavior treatment in a group setting based on a predetermined protocol.
It involves facilitating group activities and interventions aimed at improving social skills, communication, and adaptive behaviors.
CPT Codes for Physical Therapy
1. Is CPT code 97140 physical therapy?
Yes, CPT code 97140 typically represents manual therapy techniques performed by a physical therapist.
2. What is the difference between 97110 and 97140?
CPT code 97110 refers to therapeutic exercises performed by a physical therapist, while 97140 denotes manual therapy techniques such as massage or manipulation.
3. Is CPT 97014 physical therapy?
No, CPT code 97014 represents electrical stimulation therapy, which may be used in physical therapy but is not exclusive to it.
4. Is CPT code 97032 physical therapy?
Yes, CPT code 97032 typically represents electrical stimulation therapy, often used in physical therapy treatments.
5. Is CPT code 97110 physical therapy?
Yes, CPT code 97110 is commonly used for physical therapy procedures involving therapeutic exercises.
6. Is 97012 a physical therapy code?
Yes, CPT code 97012 represents traction therapy, which is a modality sometimes used in physical therapy treatments.
7. What is CPT code 97032 used for?
CPT code 97032 is used for electrical stimulation therapy, a modality often employed in physical therapy to treat muscle pain or stimulate muscle contractions.
8. What is procedure code 97032?
Procedure code 97032 is specifically for electrical stimulation therapy, which is utilized in physical therapy for various therapeutic purposes.
9. What is the CPT code for the PT session?
The CPT codes commonly used for physical therapy sessions include 97110 for therapeutic exercises, 97140 for manual therapy techniques, and 97032 for electrical stimulation therapy, among others.
10. What is diagnosis code 97032?
Diagnosis codes are typically represented by ICD-10 codes, not CPT codes.
However, a diagnosis that might warrant the use of CPT code 97032 (electrical stimulation therapy) could be related to muscle pain, muscle weakness, or certain neurological conditions.
The specific diagnosis would depend on the patient’s condition and the reason for the therapy.