How Much Does Manual Therapy (Hands-On Treatment) Cost?
Also known as: Manual therapy techniques (CPT 97140)
A physical therapy session where the therapist uses their hands to mobilize joints, stretch muscles, and reduce pain.
Manual Therapy (Hands-On Treatment) (CPT 97140) costs $20 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Manual Therapy (Hands-On Treatment)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
The therapist will use techniques like joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and stretching. You may feel pressure but should not feel sharp pain.
How Long Does It Take?
15 minutes per unit (typically 1-2 units)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Joint stiffness, muscle tightness, back or neck pain, post-surgical adhesions, limited range of motion
How to Prepare
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Tell your therapist about your pain levels throughout treatment.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Manual therapy techniques
Manual therapy techniques Cost by Location
Medicare-adjusted rates across CMS localities
| Location | Medicare Rate | Est. Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| AK — ALASKA | $36 | $47 — $72 |
| AK — ALASKA* | $28 | $42 — $69 |
| AL — ALABAMA | $26 | $34 — $52 |
| AR — ARKANSAS | $26 | $34 — $52 |
| AZ — ARIZONA | $27 | $36 — $55 |
| AZ — Phoenix | $20 | $30 — $51 |
| CA — BAKERSFIELD | $29 | $38 — $59 |
| CA — CHICO | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — EL CENTRO | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — FRESNO | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — HANFORD-CORCORAN | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — LOS ANGELES-LONG BEACH-ANAHEIM (LOS ANGELES/ORANGE CNTY) | $31 | $40 — $61 |
| CA — Los Angeles | $22 | $33 — $55 |
| CA — MADERA | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — MERCED | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — MODESTO | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — NAPA | $33 | $43 — $66 |
| CA — OXNARD-THOUSAND OAKS-VENTURA | $31 | $40 — $61 |
| CA — REDDING | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — REST OF CALIFORNIA | $29 | $38 — $58 |
| CA — RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO | $29 | $38 — $59 |
| CA — SACRAMENTO-ROSEVILLE-FOLSOM | $30 | $39 — $61 |
| CA — SALINAS | $30 | $39 — $60 |
| CA — SAN DIEGO-CHULA VISTA-CARLSBAD | $31 | $40 — $61 |
| CA — SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND-BERKELEY (MARIN CNTY) | $34 | $45 — $69 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Manual therapy techniques
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
For this procedure, the office rate ($30) differs from the facility rate ($20). Ask if it can be done in an office setting.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Medicare rates for this procedure range from $20 to $36 depending on location. Commercial rates vary even more.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU () x CF ($33.40) = N/A
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Manual therapy techniques cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Manual therapy techniques is $20. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Manual therapy techniques cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Manual therapy techniques can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Manual therapy techniques?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Manual therapy techniques when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.