Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot
Code deleted. To report manual muscle testing, see Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation services 9716197172

Official Description

Muscle testing, manual (separate procedure) with report; total evaluation of body, excluding hands

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Manual muscle testing is a clinical procedure used to assess the strength and functionality of individual muscles and muscle groups throughout the body, excluding the hands. This evaluation is crucial for identifying muscle weakness, instability, or limitations in range of motion. During the procedure, a specific muscle or muscle group is isolated, and the patient is guided through various movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, or adduction. Resistance is applied either through gravity or manual force to determine the muscle's strength. The patient is carefully positioned and stabilized, which may involve the use of supportive equipment like railings, bars, or external support belts to ensure accurate testing. The provider instructs the patient on the movements, which may be demonstrated for clarity. The evaluation includes both passive range of motion, where the provider moves the patient through the test movements, and active movements performed by the patient against resistance. The findings from this comprehensive evaluation are documented in a written report, which may include quantification of muscle function and strength using established grading systems, such as the Medical Research Council's Manual Muscle Testing Grades. This code, CPT® 95833, is specifically designated for a total evaluation of the body, excluding the hands, and is distinct from other codes that pertain to muscle testing of specific areas, such as the trunk, extremities, or hands.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Manual muscle testing is indicated for a variety of clinical scenarios where assessment of muscle strength and function is necessary. The following conditions may warrant the use of this procedure:

  • Neuromuscular Disorders Patients with conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, may require muscle testing to evaluate muscle function and strength.
  • Musculoskeletal Injuries Individuals recovering from injuries, such as sprains or strains, may undergo muscle testing to assess the impact on muscle strength and stability.
  • Post-Surgical Evaluation After surgical interventions, particularly orthopedic surgeries, muscle testing can help determine the recovery of muscle function.
  • Rehabilitation Assessment Patients in rehabilitation programs may be evaluated to track progress in muscle strength and functional capabilities.

2. Procedure

The procedure for manual muscle testing involves several key steps to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of muscle strength and function:

  • Step 1: Patient Positioning The patient is positioned appropriately to isolate the muscle or muscle group being tested. This may involve lying down, sitting, or standing, depending on the specific muscle being evaluated.
  • Step 2: Stabilization The provider stabilizes the patient as needed, which may include the use of railings, bars, or external support belts to prevent movement that could affect the accuracy of the test.
  • Step 3: Instruction and Demonstration The provider instructs the patient on the movements to be performed, often demonstrating the actions to ensure understanding and proper execution.
  • Step 4: Passive Range of Motion Assessment The provider performs passive range of motion tests, moving the patient’s limb through the desired movements to evaluate flexibility and identify any limitations or discomfort.
  • Step 5: Active Muscle Testing The patient then actively performs the movements against resistance provided by the provider, who applies manual force or utilizes gravity to assess the strength of the muscle or muscle group.
  • Step 6: Documentation of Findings After completing the testing, the provider documents the findings in a written report, which may include a grading system to quantify muscle strength and function.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following manual muscle testing typically involves reviewing the findings with the patient. The provider may discuss the results, including any identified weaknesses or limitations, and outline potential next steps for treatment or rehabilitation. Depending on the findings, the patient may be referred for further evaluation or treatment, such as physical therapy, to address any identified issues. Additionally, the provider may recommend follow-up assessments to monitor progress over time.

Short Descr BODY MUSCLE TESTING MANUAL
Medium Descr MUSC TSTG MNL W/REPRT TOTAL EVAL BODY EX HANDS
Long Descr Muscle testing, manual (separate procedure) with report; total evaluation of body, excluding hands
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 Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 212 - Diagnostic physical therapy
Date
Action
Notes
2019-12-31 Deleted Code deleted. To report manual muscle testing, see Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation services 9716197172
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"