The CPT code for water therapy, commonly known as aquatic therapy, is 97113. This code specifically identifies therapeutic procedures performed in an aquatic environment.
CPT Code 97113: The Standard for Aquatic Therapy
CPT code 97113 is designated for aquatic therapy, a specialized form of water therapy where a therapist utilizes the unique therapeutic properties of water to help clients perform exercises and activities. These activities might be difficult or impossible to perform on land due to gravity, pain, or limited mobility.
| CPT Code | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 97113 | Therapeutic Procedure | Aquatic therapy, using the therapeutic benefits of water for exercises and activities. |
Understanding Aquatic Therapy (Water Therapy)
Aquatic therapy involves a wide range of therapeutic exercises and activities performed in a pool or other aquatic environment. The water provides a unique medium that can enhance rehabilitation and fitness for various conditions.
Key Benefits of Water Therapy
The distinctive properties of water offer several advantages that make aquatic therapy an effective treatment option:
- Buoyancy: Water's buoyancy reduces the effect of gravity, decreasing weight-bearing stress on joints, muscles, and bones. This allows individuals to move with less pain and perform exercises they might not be able to do on land, such as walking or standing.
- Resistance: Water provides natural resistance, which can be used to strengthen muscles without the need for heavy weights. Moving through water creates resistance that challenges muscles from all directions.
- Hydrostatic Pressure: The pressure exerted by water helps to reduce swelling and improve circulation, which can be beneficial for individuals with edema or venous insufficiency.
- Warmth: Warm water can help to relax muscles, alleviate pain, and increase flexibility, making it easier for individuals to move and stretch.
- Reduced Impact: The low-impact nature of water therapy makes it ideal for individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or those with chronic pain conditions.
When is Aquatic Therapy Utilized?
Aquatic therapy is a versatile treatment often recommended for individuals facing challenges that make traditional land-based therapy difficult. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Orthopedic Rehabilitation: Recovering from joint replacement surgery, fractures, sprains, or strains.
- Neurological Conditions: Managing symptoms of stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, or cerebral palsy, where balance and coordination are a concern.
- Chronic Pain Management: Alleviating pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, or lower back pain.
- Balance and Gait Training: Improving stability and walking patterns in a safe, buoyant environment.
- Weight-Bearing Limitations: Enabling exercise for individuals who cannot tolerate full weight-bearing on land due to injury or disability.
For more detailed information on CPT code 97113 and its applications in therapy, you can refer to resources like TheraPlatform - CPT Code 97113.
