How Much Does Manual Therapy (Hands-On Treatment) Cost?
Also known as: Manual therapy 1/> regions (CPT 97140)
A physical therapy session focused on manual therapy techniques performed by the therapist using their hands.
Manual Therapy (Hands-On Treatment) (CPT 97140) costs $28 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Manual Therapy (Hands-On Treatment)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
The physical therapist will use their hands to mobilize joints, massage soft tissues, or stretch tight muscles and fascia. You may feel pressure and some discomfort during treatment.
How Long Does It Take?
15 minutes per unit (typically 1-2 units)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Joint stiffness, muscle tightness, post-surgical stiffness, chronic pain, neck or back pain, frozen shoulder
How to Prepare
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area. Communicate with your therapist about pressure and pain levels.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Manual therapy 1/> regions
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 10 hospitals across 5 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna | $127 | $25 - $226 | 7 |
| United | $184 | $25 - $480 | 9 |
| Cigna | $162 | $100 - $255 | 6 |
| Bright Health | $31 | $25 - $79 | 2 |
| Cigna HealthSpring | $26 | $25 - $29 | 4 |
| WellCare | $27 | $25 - $30 | 4 |
| Superior Health Plan | $28 | $26 - $29 | 2 |
| BCBS-TX | $67 | $42 - $91 | 3 |
| Humana | $101 | $25 - $269 | 6 |
| Provider Partners Health Plan of Texas | $28 | $26 - $30 | 2 |
| BCBS | $58 | $25 - $92 | 2 |
| Kaiser | $49 | $26 - $68 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Manual therapy 1/> regions
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
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
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 (0.83) x CF ($33.40) = $28
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Manual therapy 1/> regions cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Manual therapy 1/> regions is $28. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Manual therapy 1/> regions cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Manual therapy 1/> regions 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 1/> regions?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Manual therapy 1/> regions 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.