CPT Code 97140: Manual therapy techniques, each 15 minutes

When to Use CPT 97140

Use CPT code 97140 when billing for manual therapy techniques, each 15 minutes. This code is used by licensed therapists (LCSW, LPC, MFT, Psychologist) for outpatient sessions.

Adding CPT 97140 to a Superbill

When generating a superbill with CPT 97140, include the ICD-10 diagnosis code, date of service, fee charged, amount paid, and your NPI number. Superbilled pre-fills common therapy CPT codes automatically.

Common ICD-10 Pairings

These diagnosis codes are frequently used alongside CPT 97140:

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific manual technique used (mobilization, manipulation, manual traction), the anatomical region treated, and total treatment time.

Common Denial Reasons

• ✗ Billed the same visit as chiropractic manipulative treatment (98940-98942) in the same anatomical region without modifier 59/XS
• ✗ Time not documented for the manual therapy portion of the visit
• ✗ Units billed exceed documented minutes under the 8-minute rule

Modifier Notes

Timed code — bill in 15-minute units under the 8-minute rule. When billed on the same date as chiropractic manipulative treatment (98940-98942), NCCI edits bundle the two unless modifier 59 (or a more specific X{ESPU} modifier such as XS) documents a different anatomical region. The GP modifier is often required to indicate services delivered under a physical therapy plan of care.

Reimbursement Expectations

OON reimbursement is inconsistent and plan-dependent. Cash/self-pay rates typically run $35-$75 per unit.