ICD-10 Coding for Pain in Left Arm(M79.602)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pain in Left Arm. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Pain in Left Arm
M79.60-M79.69Primary Range
Other and unspecified soft tissue disorders, not elsewhere classified
This range includes codes for pain in specific limbs, including the left arm.
Pain, not elsewhere classified
This range is used for coding pain management scenarios, where pain is the primary focus of treatment.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for pain in left arm
Essential facts and insights about Pain in Left Arm
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pain left arm
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient reports pain localized to the left arm without specific etiology.
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must include specific location, duration, and any associated symptoms.
Applicable To
- Localized pain in left arm
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient reports localized pain in the left arm without specific etiology
- Physical examination confirms tenderness in the left arm
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if a more specific condition is identified
- Potential for audit if documentation does not support the code
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the exact location of pain and excludes other potential causes.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Chronic pain syndrome
G89.21Differential 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 Pain in Left Arm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.602.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning, Regulatory: Potential for coding audits, Financial: Risk of claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Always include the onset and duration of pain in documentation, Use structured templates to ensure completeness
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data and reporting
Mitigation Strategy
Use M25.512 for shoulder pain and M79.631 for forearm pain
Impact
Using M79.602 without specifying the exact location of pain
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies the exact location of pain
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 Pain in Left Arm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Pain in Left Arm
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pain in Left Arm. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Pain Management Visit
Specialty: Pain ManagementRequired Elements
- Pain duration
- Pain intensity
- Previous treatments
- Current management plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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