August 19, 2021

Question:
One of my pain management physicians performed a trigger point into the 1 muscle and the documentation says dry needle technique. Do I code this using CPT code 20552?

Answer:
No, you would not report 20550 for dry needling. Prior to 2020, the service would be reported with the unlisted code 20999. Beginning January 1, 2020, new codes were added to CPT. The correct code to use for 1 or 2 muscles is 20560. If the procedure is performed on 3 or more muscles use code 20561.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 08/19/21