Creatine Kinase (CK or CPK)
What it measures
Creatine kinase, also called CK or CPK, is an enzyme found in muscle. When muscle is damaged, more CK enters the blood. This test measures that level.
When it’s ordered
Muscle pain or weakness, including pain that may come from some cholesterol medicines, and suspected muscle injury.
Medicare coverage
Medicare judges coverage case by case under its medical-necessity rules. Medicare does not publish a national list of diagnoses for this test. The local Medicare contractor in your state may have its own rules.
Typical price
Medicare pays a set rate of $6.51 for this test (2026 fee schedule). When Medicare covers this test, you pay nothing. A lab can bill far more if you pay on your own or if Medicare denies the claim, so ask for the price first.
One thing to watch
If you have muscle pain on a cholesterol medicine, tell your doctor. That symptom should be on the order.
Look up the current Medicare allowable for Creatine Kinase (CK or CPK) →
Rates and coverage rules shown apply to Original Medicare (Fee-for-Service) only. Medicare Advantage plans may differ. See our data sources →