September 11, 2025
Physical medicine and rehabilitation, the 97140 CPT code is a key part of healthcare workers. This code represents manual therapy techniques performed by qualified providers to deal with different conditions and ensure that patients receive targeted practical care.
Let’s dive into what the CPT code 97140 means, how it is charged, and who can use it effectively in clinical practice.
97140 CPT Code is used to bill for manual therapy techniques, including mobilization, manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, and manual traction. This code applies when a provider (such as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or chiropractor) uses hands-on techniques to restore joint motion, reduce pain, and improve function.
In 2025, the 97140 CPT Code remains one of the most frequently billed manual therapy codes in rehabilitation, making correct documentation and billing practices essential for providers and billing managers.
According to the AMA CPT guidelines, the 97140 CPT Code is defined as:
Manual therapy techniques (e.g., mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, manual traction), one or more regions, each 15 minutes.
This code is time-based, meaning providers must document at least 8 minutes of direct, one-on-one manual therapy to bill for one unit.
CPT Code 97140 can only be charged with qualified healthcare workers trained in manual therapy techniques, including:
You should bill 97140 when performing any of the following:
Common Clinical Scenarios:
Neurological conditions requiring soft tissue mobilization
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Knowing related therapy CPT codes helps avoid denials:
Can you bill 97140 and 97110 together?
Yes, but only if performed on different anatomical regions or distinct therapeutic purposes. Documentation must clearly distinguish the services.
CPT Code 97140 follows the 8-Minute Rule, which specifies the minimum treatment time required to bill for a single unit:
Units | Number of Minutes |
1 unit | ≥ 08 minutes through 22 minutes |
2 units | ≥ 23 minutes through 37 minutes |
3 units | ≥ 38 minutes through 52 minutes |
4 units | ≥ 53 minutes through 67 minutes |
5 units | ≥ 68 minutes through 82 minutes |
6 units | ≥ 83 minutes through 97 minutes |
7 units | ≥ 98 minutes through 112 minutes |
8 units | ≥ 113 minutes through 127 minutes |
Proper time tracking is essential to avoid billing errors and ensure compliance.
To support medical necessity and prevent claim denials, documentation should include:
For clinical therapy coding updates, review the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) coding resources.
For reimbursement details, check the CMS Physician Fee Schedule.
The 97140 CPT Code continues to be a critical billing code for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and chiropractic care in 2025. Proper documentation, time tracking, and correct use of modifiers are essential for avoiding denials and ensuring accurate reimbursement.
Cures Medical Billing helps healthcare providers simplify the complexities of manual therapy and rehabilitation billing. From managing modifiers to maximizing reimbursements, our team ensures your claims are accurate, compliant, and paid faster.
Contact Cures Medical Billing today to optimize your therapy billing process and protect your revenue.
One unit equals 15 minutes, but you must document at least 8 minutes to bill.
Yes, if documentation supports that manual therapy and therapeutic activities addressed different goals.
Yes, if billed alongside codes like 97110 or 97530, you may need Modifier 59.
97140 is manual therapy focused on functional improvement. Massage therapy codes (97124) focus on relaxation and circulation enhancement.
Yes, chiropractors often use 97140 for spinal mobilization, traction, and soft tissue release.
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