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Official Description

Range of motion measurements and report (separate procedure); hand, with or without comparison with normal side

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Range of motion measurements are a critical assessment tool used to evaluate the functional capacity of specific joints, muscles, or muscle groups. The procedure is performed as a separate entity, focusing specifically on the hand. During this assessment, passive range of motion techniques are employed, wherein the healthcare provider actively moves the patient's hand through various test movements. This process allows the provider to assess the extent of movement available at the joints of the hand, while also identifying any limitations that may be present. Additionally, the provider observes for signs of weakness or instability during the movement, which can provide valuable insights into the patient's overall musculoskeletal health. It is important to note that this code, CPT® 95852, is specifically designated for range of motion testing of the hand, and it can be utilized with or without a comparison to the normal side of the hand. For range of motion testing of other extremities or sections of the spine, a different code, CPT® 95851, should be used.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The range of motion measurements using CPT® code 95852 are indicated for the evaluation of the hand's functional capacity. This procedure is typically performed in the following scenarios:

  • Joint Dysfunction Assessment of joint function and mobility in cases of suspected joint dysfunction or injury.
  • Post-Injury Evaluation Evaluation of range of motion following an injury to determine recovery progress.
  • Pre-Surgical Assessment Pre-operative assessment to establish baseline range of motion prior to surgical intervention.
  • Rehabilitation Monitoring Monitoring progress in rehabilitation programs aimed at restoring hand function.

2. Procedure

The procedure for range of motion measurements of the hand involves several key steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation The patient is positioned comfortably, ensuring that the hand being assessed is accessible. The provider explains the procedure to the patient to ensure understanding and cooperation.
  • Step 2: Passive Range of Motion Testing The provider gently moves the patient's hand through various motions, including flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction. This is done without the patient exerting any effort, allowing the provider to assess the full range of motion available at each joint.
  • Step 3: Observation and Documentation During the testing, the provider carefully observes for any limitations in movement, as well as signs of weakness or instability. These observations are documented meticulously to provide a comprehensive report of the findings.
  • Step 4: Comparison with Normal Side If applicable, the provider may compare the range of motion of the affected hand with that of the normal hand. This comparison helps to highlight any discrepancies in function and can guide further treatment decisions.

3. Post-Procedure

After the range of motion measurements are completed, the provider may discuss the findings with the patient, outlining any limitations observed and potential implications for treatment or rehabilitation. Depending on the results, the provider may recommend further diagnostic imaging or refer the patient to a specialist for additional evaluation. The patient may also receive guidance on exercises or therapies to improve hand function and mobility, as well as instructions for follow-up appointments to monitor progress.

Short Descr RANGE OF MOTION MEASUREMENTS
Medium Descr ROM MEAS&REPRT HAND W/WO COMPARISON NORMAL SID
Long Descr Range of motion measurements and report (separate procedure); hand, with or without comparison with normal side
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Service Paid under Fee Schedule or Payment System other than OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) M5D - Specialist - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 212 - Diagnostic physical therapy
GO Services delivered under an outpatient occupational therapy plan of care
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
GP Services delivered under an outpatient physical therapy plan of care
CO Outpatient occupational therapy services furnished in whole or in part by an occupational therapy assistant
CQ Outpatient physical therapy services furnished in whole or in part by a physical therapist assistant
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
KX Requirements specified in the medical policy have been met
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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