2025 CPT code 20560
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Injection Procedures Musculoskeletal System Feed
Needle insertion(s) without injection(s); 1 or 2 muscle(s)
Modifiers 59 (distinct procedural service) and 76 (repeat procedure by same physician) may be applicable depending on the circumstances.
Medical necessity is established when dry needling is used as part of a comprehensive physical therapy treatment plan for conditions like myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, or other musculoskeletal disorders where trigger points contribute to pain and limited function.The procedure should be supported by clinical findings and documented to improve range of motion and reduce pain.
The clinical responsibility lies with a physical therapist or other qualified healthcare professional trained in dry needling. This involves identifying trigger points, performing the needle insertion, and monitoring the patient's response. Post-procedure instructions and follow-up care are also within the clinician's scope.
In simple words: A physical therapist inserts thin needles into one or two sore spots in your muscles to relieve pain.No medication is injected.
This CPT code 20560 represents the procedure of inserting needles into one or two muscles without injecting any substance.The needles are inserted into myofascial trigger points to alleviate pain and improve range of motion.This technique is often used as part of a broader physical therapy plan and is distinct from acupuncture.
Example 1: A patient presents with chronic neck pain stemming from myofascial trigger points in the trapezius muscles. The physical therapist uses dry needling to target these trigger points, resulting in pain reduction and improved neck mobility., An athlete experiences persistent lower back pain due to trigger points in the quadratus lumborum muscles. Dry needling is integrated into their rehabilitation program to address the trigger points and enhance their functional recovery., A patient diagnosed with fibromyalgia experiences widespread muscle pain.Dry needling is used as an adjunct therapy to physical therapy to target specific areas of pain, relieving discomfort and improving quality of life.
* Thorough patient history, including location and characteristics of pain.* Physical examination documenting trigger point location, palpation findings, and range of motion limitations.* Documentation of the number of needles inserted and muscles treated.* Note any local twitch responses elicited during the procedure.* Record of post-procedure assessment of pain levels and range of motion.* Patient education regarding the procedure and post-procedure care.
** This procedure is considered a minimally invasive technique with minimal risks.However, standard infection control precautions should be followed.The use of this code requires proper training and expertise in dry needling techniques.
- Revenue Code: P6C (MINOR PROCEDURES - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Physical Therapy, Sports Medicine, Pain Management
- Place of Service:Office, Clinic, Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility