How To Use CPT Code 97034

CPT 97034 describes the application of a modality known as contrast baths for treating muscle soreness, swelling, and inflammation. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 97034?

CPT 97034 can be used to describe the application of contrast baths, a modality used to treat muscle soreness, swelling, and inflammation. This technique involves immersing the joint or limb in alternating hot and cold water to cause dilation and constriction of blood vessels, which helps increase circulation in the damaged tissue and promotes rapid recovery. Each 15-minute session of contrast baths should be reported using one unit of this code.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 97034 is: ‘Application of a modality to one or more areas; contrast baths, each 15 minutes.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares a contrast bath, which involves filling two containers with water – one with hot water and the other with cold water.
2. The patient’s joint or limb is immersed in the hot water for a specific duration, typically around 3-4 minutes.
3. The patient’s joint or limb is then immediately transferred to the cold water container and immersed for a similar duration.
4. This alternating process of immersing the joint or limb in hot and cold water is repeated for the desired number of cycles, usually 3-4 cycles.
5. After the final cold water immersion, the patient’s joint or limb is dried and any necessary post-treatment care is provided.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 97034 is used for patients who require treatment for muscle soreness, swelling, and inflammation in one or more areas. This modality is typically used for joint or muscle-related conditions. The provider must ensure that the patient’s condition warrants the use of contrast baths and that it is an appropriate treatment option. The procedure can be performed by various healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, or other qualified providers.

5. When to use CPT code 97034

CPT code 97034 should be used when a provider applies contrast baths to one or more areas of a patient’s body to treat muscle soreness, swelling, or inflammation. It is important to note that this code should only be used for each 15-minute session of contrast baths. If the session lasts for a different duration, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 97034, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or condition requiring treatment
• Specific areas treated with contrast baths
• Date and duration of each 15-minute session
• Number of cycles performed during each session
• Any additional post-treatment care provided
• Signature of the provider administering the contrast baths

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 97034, ensure that the provider applies contrast baths for the specified duration and to the appropriate areas. Each 15-minute session should be reported using one unit of this code. It is important to review payer guidelines and policies to ensure accurate and appropriate billing. Additionally, consider any applicable modifiers that may be required for proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 97034 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1995. The code underwent a change on January 1, 2010, with the updated description reflecting the use of contrast baths for treating muscle soreness, swelling, and inflammation.

9. Examples

1. A physical therapist applies contrast baths to a patient’s knee to alleviate swelling and promote healing after a sports injury.
2. An occupational therapist uses contrast baths to treat a patient’s hand affected by arthritis, reducing pain and improving mobility.
3. A chiropractor applies contrast baths to a patient’s lower back to relieve muscle soreness and inflammation caused by a strain.
4. A sports medicine physician uses contrast baths to treat an athlete’s ankle sprain, accelerating the recovery process and reducing swelling.
5. A physical therapist applies contrast baths to a patient’s shoulder following surgery, aiding in pain management and promoting tissue healing.
6. An athletic trainer uses contrast baths to treat a runner’s shin splints, reducing inflammation and facilitating recovery.
7. A massage therapist incorporates contrast baths into a treatment session for a client with muscle soreness and tension, enhancing the therapeutic effects.
8. A physical therapist applies contrast baths to a patient’s elbow affected by tennis elbow, reducing pain and promoting tissue healing.
9. An acupuncturist combines contrast baths with acupuncture therapy to enhance the treatment of a patient’s chronic pain condition.
10. A sports therapist uses contrast baths as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program for an athlete recovering from a muscle strain.