From the Research
The ICD-10 code for radicular symptoms is M54.1, which represents radiculopathy, and this code should be used when a patient presents with symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates along the path of a spinal nerve due to compression or irritation of the nerve root. For more specific coding, you may need to identify the location of the radiculopathy, such as cervical (M54.12), thoracic (M54.14), or lumbosacral (M54.16) 1. When documenting radicular symptoms, it's essential to note the specific symptoms, their distribution, and any associated neurological findings to support the diagnosis. The underlying cause of radiculopathy, such as disc herniation (M51.1-) or spinal stenosis (M48.0-), should also be coded separately when known, as this provides a more complete clinical picture and may affect treatment decisions 2.
Some key points to consider when coding radicular symptoms include:
- Identifying the location of the radiculopathy
- Documenting specific symptoms and their distribution
- Noting associated neurological findings
- Coding the underlying cause of radiculopathy separately when known
- Using the ICD-10 code M54.1 for radiculopathy, with more specific codes for cervical, thoracic, or lumbosacral radiculopathy as needed 3, 4, 5.
It's also important to consider the treatment options for radiculopathy, including non-surgical approaches such as physical therapy, exercise therapy, and epidural injections, as well as surgical options for more severe cases 1, 5. By accurately coding radicular symptoms and considering the underlying cause and treatment options, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive appropriate care and management for their condition.