ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Foot Drop(M21.371, M21.372)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Foot Drop. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Foot Drop
M21.37Primary Range
Acquired deformities of foot
Primary range for coding acquired foot deformities including foot drop.
Lumbar and other intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy
Used when foot drop is secondary to lumbar radiculopathy.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M21.371 | Acquired foot deformity, right foot | Use when documenting right foot drop due to musculoskeletal causes. |
|
| M21.372 | Acquired foot deformity, left foot | Use when documenting left foot drop due to musculoskeletal causes. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: How to code bilateral foot drop
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Foot Drop
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral foot drop
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of right foot dorsiflexion weakness
Applicable To
- Right foot drop
Excludes
- Congenital foot deformities
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Weak dorsiflexion of the right foot
- Normal nerve conduction studies
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes when laterality is known.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies right foot involvement.
M21.372 - Acquired foot deformity, left foot
Use when documenting left foot drop due to musculoskeletal causes.
Applicable To
- Left foot drop
Excludes
- Congenital foot deformities
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Weak dorsiflexion of the left foot
- Normal nerve conduction studies
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies left foot involvement.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy, lumbar region
M51.16Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Lesion of peroneal nerve, right lower limb
G57.3Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Foot Drop to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M21.371.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate patient records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify right or left in clinical notes.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to improper reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Code both M21.371 and M21.372 for bilateral foot drop.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all clinical notes specify right or left involvement.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Bilateral Foot Drop, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Foot Drop
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Foot Drop. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurology Progress Note
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Assessment of bilateral foot drop
- Objective findings including muscle testing
- Imaging results
- Plan for management
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bilateral Foot Drop? Ask your questions below.