ICD-10 Coding for Cramps in Legs(M62.831, I70.213, E87.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cramps in Legs. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cramps in Legs
M62.8Primary Range
Other muscle disorders
This range includes codes for muscle spasms and cramps, specifically in the lower limbs.
Atherosclerosis of native arteries of the extremities
Used when cramps are due to peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M62.831 | Muscle spasm of calf | Use for idiopathic or exercise-induced calf cramps. |
|
| I70.213 | Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication, bilateral legs | Use when cramps are due to PAD. |
|
| E87.6 | Hypokalemia | Use when cramps are due to low potassium levels. |
|
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 calf muscle spasms
Essential facts and insights about Cramps in Legs
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cramps in legs
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of muscle spasm with normal vascular studies
Applicable To
- Calf muscle spasm
- Calf cramps
Excludes
- Muscle strain (S86.91-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Tenderness on calf palpation
- Normal vascular studies
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with muscle strain codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies laterality and associated symptoms.
I70.213 - Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication, bilateral legs
Use when cramps are due to PAD.
Applicable To
- PAD with claudication
Excludes
- Atherosclerosis with gangrene (I70.26-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ABI <0.9
- Cramp relief within 2 minutes of rest
Coding Notes
Document ABI and symptom relief time.
E87.6 - Hypokalemia
Use when cramps are due to low potassium levels.
Applicable To
- Low potassium levels
Excludes
- Hyperkalemia (E87.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Serum potassium <3.5 mEq/L
Coding Notes
Ensure lab results are documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cramp and spasm
R25.2Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cramps in Legs to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M62.831.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis of PAD severity., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential denial of claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Include ABI results in documentation, Ensure symptom relief time is noted
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Combine with M62.831 for specific muscle spasm coding.
Impact
Coding without specifying laterality can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document whether cramps are bilateral or unilateral.
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 Cramps in Legs, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cramps in Legs
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cramps in Legs. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurology Progress Note
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical exam findings
- Laboratory results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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