Creatine Kinase
Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in skeletal muscle, heart, and brain that leaks into blood when these tissues are damaged. Elevations commonly follow strenuous exercise, trauma, or intramuscular injections, and can be seen with statin-related muscle injury, inflammatory myopathies, or rhabdomyolysis. Very high levels can cause kidney injury if untreated.
8 of 22 providers
Advanced / Specialty Markers
Men:52-336 U/L, Women:29-168 U/L
What is Creatine Kinase?
Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in skeletal muscle, heart, and brain that leaks into blood when these tissues are damaged. Elevations commonly follow strenuous exercise, trauma, or intramuscular injections, and can be seen with statin-related muscle injury, inflammatory myopathies, or rhabdomyolysis. Very high levels can cause kidney injury if untreated.
Why It Matters
Elevated after intense exercise or muscle injury. Very high levels indicate rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) or heart attack. Useful for athletes.
Which Providers Test Creatine Kinase?
Full Provider Comparison
| Provider | Includes | Annual Cost | Biomarkers |
|---|---|---|---|
 Superpower | ✓ | $199 | 100+ (150 with ratios) |
 WHOOP Advanced Labs | — | $349 | 65 |
 Labcorp OnDemand | — | $398 | 40+ |
| — | $486 | 40+ | |
| — | $449 | 288 | |
| ✓ | $349 | 100+ | |
| ✓ | $829 | 54 | |
 Function Health | ✓ | $365 | 160+ |
| — | $250 | 65 | |
| — | $495 | 80+ | |
| ✓ | $895 | 100+ | |
| ✓ | $1950 | 130+ | |
| — | $375 | 95+ | |
| — | $Varies | 75+ | |
| — | $190 | 100+ | |
| — | $99 | 50 | |
| — | $124 | 60 | |
| ✓ | $349 | 130+ | |
| — | $349 | 80+ | |
| — | $375 | 85 | |
| ✓ | $700 | 128 | |
| — | $99 | 100+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creatine Kinase?
Creatine kinase (CK) is an enzyme found in skeletal muscle, heart, and brain that leaks into blood when these tissues are damaged. Elevations commonly follow strenuous exercise, trauma, or intramuscular injections, and can be seen with statin-related muscle injury, inflammatory myopathies, or rhabdomyolysis. Very high levels can cause kidney injury if untreated.
What is the optimal range for Creatine Kinase?
The standard reference range for Creatine Kinase is Men:52-336 U/L, Women:29-168 U/L. Optimal ranges may differ based on individual health goals and expert recommendations.
Which blood test providers include Creatine Kinase?
8 out of 22 blood testing providers include Creatine Kinase in their panels. This biomarker is widely available across major providers.
What category does Creatine Kinase fall under?
Creatine Kinase is categorized under Advanced / Specialty Markers. This category includes biomarkers that help assess related aspects of health and wellness.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health needs.
Last reviewed:2026-04-12