CPT Code 73630 – Complete Foot X-Ray Billing Guide for 2025
November 26, 2025
CPT Code 73630 - Complete Foot X-Ray Billing Guide for 2025
Understanding CPT Code 73630
CPT Code 73630 represents a complete radiologic examination of the foot with a minimum of three views. This X-ray study helps identify fractures, bone deformities, infections, arthritis, and other foot abnormalities. Providers use this code when performing a full diagnostic foot X-ray to evaluate injuries or chronic conditions.
The CPT Code 73630 is one of the most frequently used X-ray CPT codes in podiatry, orthopedics, urgent care and primary care. As a complete foot X-ray, CPT 73630 includes at least three views and offers a comprehensive evaluation of the bones and soft tissues.
Understanding how to code it correctly, including modifier use, bundling rules, and reimbursement guidelines, is essential for preventing denials and ensuring proper payment.
CPT Code 73630 Description
- Code: 73630
- Description: Radiologic examination, foot; complete, minimum of 3 views
- Purpose: To diagnose foot injuries, fractures, deformities, arthritis, infections, or tumors
- Included Views: Minimum of 3
- Included Anatomy: Toes and calcaneus (heel)
Because the toes and heel are included. You should not bill toe X-rays (CPT 73660) or calcaneus X-rays (CPT 73650) on the same foot during the same encounter.
What Is CPT Code 73630 Used For?
Healthcare providers use CPT Code 73630 when evaluating conditions such as:
- Foot fractures or suspected fractures
- Soft tissue injuries
- Degenerative joint disease
- Osteomyelitis or infection
- Structural abnormalities
- Trauma-related pain
- Pre-operative and post-operative evaluations
A complete foot X-ray allows clinicians to review multiple angles for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
When to Use CPT Code 73630 vs. Other X-Ray CPT Codes
Below is a clear comparison:
CPT Code 73630 vs. CPT Code 73610
- 73630 – Foot X-ray, complete
- 73610 – Ankle X-ray, minimum 3 views
Can CPT Code 73610 and 73630 be billed together?
- Yes, if both studies are medically necessary and performed on different anatomical regions.
Documentation must clearly support separate imaging.
CPT Code 73630 vs. CPT Code 73650 (Calcaneus X-ray)
- 73630 includes the calcaneus.
- 73650 cannot be billed with 73630 for the same foot.
Can CPT Code 73650 and 73630 be billed together?
- Yes, only if imaging is done on different feet.
- In that case, use RT and LT modifiers.
CPT Code 73630 vs. CPT Code 73660 (Toe X-ray)
- 73630 includes toe views.
- 73660 is not separately billable for the same foot.
Common X-Ray CPT Codes Related to CPT 73630
CPT Code | Description |
73630 | Foot X-ray, complete (≥ 3 views) |
73610 | Ankle X-ray (≥ 3 views) |
73620 | Foot X-ray, two views |
73650 | Calcaneus X-ray |
73660 | Toe X-ray |
72070 | Thoracic spine X-ray |
72100 | Lumbar spine X-ray (AP & lateral) |
72110 | Lumbar spine X-ray (≥ 4 views) |
Such as x ray cpt codes, cpt code for foot x ray, and cpt code lumbar spine xray.
Does CPT Code 73630 Need a Modifier?
Most payers require a side-specific modifier:
- RT – Right Foot
- LT – Left Foot
- 50 – Bilateral (if both feet are imaged)
CPT Code 73630 RT / CPT Code 73630 LT
Use these when performing a foot X-ray on one side only.
CPT Code 73630 Bilateral
Some payers want the 50 modifier, others prefer RT + LT with units.
Check payer-specific guidelines.
CPT Code 73630 Modifier 26
If only professional component is billed (radiologist interpretation only), use:
- 26 – Professional component
- TC – Technical component (facility, equipment, staff)
Can CPT Code 73630 and 73650 Be Billed Together?
Yes, but only when performed on opposite feet.
Example:
- Right foot complete X-ray 73630 RT
- Left calcaneus X-ray 73650 LT
Not allowed for the same foot on the same date of service.
Documentation Requirements for CPT Code 73630
To prevent denials, your documentation should include:
- Medical necessity for the X-ray
- Indication (injury, pain, trauma, swelling, etc.)
- Number of views (≥ 3)
- Laterality (right, left, or bilateral)
- Radiologist interpretation report
- Date and location of imaging
Best practice: Always document “minimum of three views performed.”
Reimbursement for CPT Code 73630
Reimbursement depends on:
- Facility vs. non-facility setting
- Geographic pricing
- Whether the professional or technical component is billed
Typical reimbursement range (varies by payer):
- Non-Facility: $35–$50
- Facility: $10–$25 (technical may already be included)
Private payers may reimburse higher.
CPT Code 73630 Billing & Coding Tips
Here are key medical billing insights to reduce denials:
Use RT/LT for all unilateral studies
Many payers automatically deny claims without laterality.
For bilateral imaging
Check whether payer prefers:
- Modifier 50, or
- RT + LT with 1 unit each
Avoid unallowed bundling
Never bill 73650 or 73660 with 73630 for the same foot.
Ensure radiology report is complete
Missing interpretations cause many denials.
Watch for medical necessity
Screening X-rays are not covered.
Clinical Conditions Justifying CPT 73630
Foot X-rays are appropriate when patients present with:
- Trauma or injury
- Persistent pain
- Swelling or discoloration
- Suspected stress fractures
- Bone deformities
- Post-surgical evaluation
- Suspected infection
- Joint stiffness or arthritis
- Neuropathy-related deformities (e.g., diabetic foot)
Clear documentation strengthens claim approval.
Final Thoughts
Accurate billing for CPT Code 73630 ensures proper reimbursement and reduces denials—especially in radiology, podiatry, urgent care, and orthopedic practices. From modifier usage to bundling rules, each detail matters in ensuring clean claims.
If your practice wants to streamline radiology billing, improve claim accuracy, and maximize reimbursements, ExpressMBS provides expert support tailored to your specialty.
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Contact ExpressMBS today and get end-to-end billing solutions that simplify your workflow and boost revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is CPT Code 73650?
CPT 73650 is a calcaneus (heel) X-ray. If you perform a complete foot X-ray with CPT 73630, you cannot bill 73650 for the same foot on the same date of service.
Can you bill CPT 73630 and 73650 together?
Yes, only when imaging is done on opposite feet. Use RT and LT modifiers to indicate laterality.
Not allowed for the same foot.
How do I know if my CPT code is bundled?
Bundled codes include procedures already covered within a primary CPT code. For example, CPT 73630 includes toes and heel, so 73650 (calcaneus X-ray) and 73660 (toe X-ray) are considered bundled if performed on the same foot.
Can you bill manual therapy and therapeutic activity together?
Yes, as long as the services are distinct and documented separately. Insurance providers require clear differentiation to avoid unbundling denials.
Is it possible to submit claims for two CPT codes simultaneously?
Yes, if the procedures are medically necessary, distinct, and not bundled.
Documentation should clearly support both services.
What is the difference between bundled and unbundled?
- Bundled: One CPT code already includes multiple services or components. Billing them separately may result in denial.
- Unbundled: Services are separate and distinct, allowing multiple CPT codes to be billed together.
What is CPT Code 98960 used for?
CPT 98960 is for patient education and training for self-management of chronic conditions, usually in a diabetes or lifestyle counseling session.
