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ICD-10 Coding for Right Forearm Pain(M79.631)

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

Also known as:

Pain in right forearmRight arm pain localized to forearm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Right Forearm Pain

M79.6-M79.7Primary Range

Other and unspecified soft tissue disorders, not elsewhere classified

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

Other spontaneous rupture of synovium and tendon

This range includes codes for tendon ruptures that may cause forearm pain.

Pain, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for acute and chronic pain management, which may be relevant if pain management is the primary focus.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for right forearm pain

Essential facts and insights about Right Forearm Pain

The ICD-10 code for right forearm pain is M79.631, used for isolated pain in the right forearm without a known cause.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for right forearm pain

Pain in right forearm
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Pain localized to the forearm with no other identifiable cause.

documentation Criteria

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

Applicable To

  • Localized pain in the right forearm

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented location and characteristics of pain
  • Exclusion of other causes such as fractures or tendon ruptures

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using unspecified codes if the location is not clearly documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure detailed documentation of the pain's location, onset, and characteristics to support code selection.

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 the primary reason for the visit is pain management.

Differential Codes

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

Spontaneous rupture of other tendons, right forearm

M66.831
Use if MRI confirms tendon rupture with sudden loss of function.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Forearm Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.631.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates to ensure all details are captured., Train staff on the importance of detailed documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies the exact location of the pain.

Impact

Incorrect sequencing of G89 codes when pain management is the primary focus.

Mitigation Strategy

Train coders on proper sequencing rules and documentation requirements.

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 Right Forearm Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Right Forearm Pain

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

Orthopedic evaluation for forearm pain

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Location of pain
  • Onset and duration
  • Pain characteristics
  • Impact on function
  • Exacerbating and relieving factors

Example Documentation

Patient reports a constant dull ache (4/10) in the radial aspect of the right forearm, exacerbated by resisted supination, limiting the ability to operate power tools. No trauma history. Normal X-ray 3/25/25.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Right forearm pain, prescribe NSAIDs.
Good Documentation Example
Constant dull ache (4/10) in radial aspect right forearm exacerbated by resisted supination, limits ability to operate power tools. No trauma history. Normal X-ray 3/25/25.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the pain's location, characteristics, and impact on function, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Right Forearm Pain? Ask your questions below.

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