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ICD-10 Coding for Pain in Left Foot(M79.672)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pain in Left Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Left Foot PainPain in Left Foot

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pain in Left Foot

M79.67-M79.679Primary Range

Other specified soft tissue disorders, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for pain in specific body parts, including the left foot.

Pain in joint

This range includes codes for joint pain, which may be relevant if the pain involves the ankle joint.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for pain in left foot

Essential facts and insights about Pain in Left Foot

The ICD-10 code for pain in the left foot is M79.672, used for localized pain without a definitive diagnosis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pain left foot

Pain in left foot
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Pain localized to the left foot with no confirmed underlying condition.

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of pain characteristics and exclusion of other conditions.

Applicable To

  • Localized pain in the left foot

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of pain localized to the left foot
  • Exclusion of other conditions such as fractures or arthritis through imaging

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using unspecified codes if laterality is not documented
  • Potential for denial if underlying conditions are not ruled out

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'left foot' to avoid unspecified codes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Acute pain due to trauma

G89.11
Use when pain management is required for acute post-traumatic pain.

Differential Codes

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

Pain in left ankle and foot joint

M25.572
Use if pain involves the ankle joint in addition to the foot.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pain in Left Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.672.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate patient records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify 'left' or 'right' in documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the specific location of the pain, such as 'left foot'.

Impact

Risk of audits due to unspecified codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all clinical notes specify 'left' or 'right'.

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

Documentation Templates for Pain in Left Foot

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pain in Left Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Patient presents with left foot pain

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Pain characteristics
  • Location specificity
  • Exclusion of other conditions

Example Documentation

Patient reports sharp, throbbing pain in the left foot, exacerbated by weight-bearing activities. No signs of fracture on X-ray.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient complains of foot pain.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports sharp, throbbing pain localized to the left foot, worsens with weight-bearing; X-ray negative for fracture.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, pain characteristics, and excludes other conditions.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pain in Left Foot? Ask your questions below.

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