What is the CPT Code for Physical Therapy?

Understanding CPT Codes for Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an essential service for patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. In medical billing, CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes are used to describe the exact services a therapist provides.

There isn’t just one CPT code for physical therapy  several codes exist, each tied to a specific type of therapy or evaluation. The most commonly used include:

• 97161 – 97163 – Physical therapy evaluations (low, moderate, high complexity)
• 97110 – Therapeutic exercises to improve strength, endurance, range of motion, and flexibility
• 97530 – Therapeutic activities aimed at functional performance in daily life
• 97140 – Manual therapy techniques (joint mobilization, manipulation, and manual traction)

Correct use of these codes ensures healthcare providers are properly reimbursed for the exact services they deliver. At EZ Settle Solutions, we specialize in accurate coding that reduces claim denials and speeds up the payment process.

Why Accurate Coding is Critical for Physical Therapy

Billing for physical therapy is more complex than it seems. Many sessions involve multiple treatments, each requiring its own CPT code. If incorrect codes are used, payers may reject or delay payment. This can impact both clinic cash flow and patient satisfaction. Our Services are designed to handle this complexity. We ensure that each claim reflects the right combination of codes, proper documentation, and compliance with payer rules.

Documentation and Compliance in Physical Therapy Billing

Every billed CPT code must be supported by thorough documentation that justifies the medical necessity of the service. For instance, billing for therapeutic exercises (97110) requires records showing the purpose of the exercise, the time spent, and the progress made. To dive deeper into coding best practices, our Medical Billing and Coding guide provides practical tips for staying compliant and avoiding errors. For official CPT descriptions and annual updates, you can visit the American Medical Association CPT Code Search  the most reliable source for coding guidelines.

How EZ Settle Solutions Can Help

Physical therapy practices already have enough on their plate managing patient care. Outsourcing billing to a trusted partner ensures claims are filed accurately and on time. Our specialists handle everything from code selection to denial management so you can focus on patient recovery. If you’re ready to streamline your physical therapy billing, Request a Demo and see how we can help increase your reimbursement rates while keeping you compliant.