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ICD-10 Coding for Coccydynia(M53.3, S32.2XXA)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Coccydynia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

CoccygodyniaTailbone Pain

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Coccydynia

M53.3Primary Range

Sacrococcygeal disorders, not elsewhere classified

This range includes coccydynia and is the primary range for coding this condition.

Fracture of coccyx

Used when coccydynia is due to a traumatic fracture of the coccyx.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
M53.3Sacrococcygeal disorders, not elsewhere classifiedUse when the patient presents with chronic tailbone pain without evidence of fracture.
  • Localized tenderness over coccyx
  • Pain duration greater than 3 months
  • Imaging results (X-ray/MRI) confirming no fracture
S32.2XXAFracture of coccyx, initial encounterUse when coccydynia is due to a traumatic fracture of the coccyx.
  • History of trauma
  • Imaging confirming fracture

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: ICD-10 code for coccydynia

Essential facts and insights about Coccydynia

The ICD-10 code for coccydynia is M53.3, which covers sacrococcygeal disorders not elsewhere classified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for coccydynia

Sacrococcygeal disorders, not elsewhere classified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Chronic pain localized to the coccyx with no fracture

documentation Criteria

  • Imaging results confirming no fracture

Applicable To

  • Coccydynia
  • Coccygodynia

Excludes

  • Fracture of coccyx (S32.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Localized tenderness over coccyx
  • Pain duration greater than 3 months
  • Imaging results (X-ray/MRI) confirming no fracture

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if trauma is involved without proper documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies chronicity and excludes fractures.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Fracture of coccyx, initial encounter

S32.2XXA
Use when coccydynia is due to a confirmed fracture of the coccyx.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Pelvic and perineal pain

R10.2
Use R10.2 if pain is not localized to the coccyx or if coccyx origin is ruled out.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Coccydynia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M53.3.

Impact

Clinical: Misleading clinical picture, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always verify and document trauma history, Use imaging to confirm fractures

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate medical records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use CPT 20605 for sacrococcygeal joint injections.

Impact

Failure to sequence trauma codes before M53.3 when applicable.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure trauma is documented and sequenced first.

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 Coccydynia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Coccydynia

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Coccydynia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Chronic coccydynia without trauma

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Pain duration
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment history

Example Documentation

42F c/o 6mo worsening coccyx pain, worse when sitting >30min. Denies trauma. TTP over coccyx, no bruising. MRI: No fracture; mild bone edema at S5-C1 junction. Dx: Chronic coccydynia (M53.3). Plan: PT referral, corticosteroid injection (CPT 20605).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Tailbone pain, order PT.
Good Documentation Example
Localized coccyx tenderness x4mo, failed NSAIDs. Dynamic X-ray shows 8° sacrococcygeal motion (normal 13°). Dx: M53.3.
Explanation
The good example provides specific findings and failed treatments, supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Coccydynia? Ask your questions below.

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