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ICD-10 Coding for Pain in Left Forearm(M79.632)

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

Also known as:

Left Forearm PainForearm Pain - Left

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pain in Left Forearm

M79.6Primary Range

Pain in limb

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

Pain, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for pain management and chronic pain conditions.

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

Essential facts and insights about Pain in Left Forearm

The ICD-10 code for pain in the left forearm is M79.632, used when pain is specifically localized to this area.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pain in left forearm

Pain in left forearm
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Pain localized to the left forearm with no other specific diagnosis

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'left forearm' in clinical notes

Applicable To

  • Localized pain in the left forearm

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of pain localized to the left forearm
  • Negative imaging for fracture
  • Physical exam findings such as tenderness

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using a more general arm pain code
  • Lack of specificity in documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'left forearm' to avoid using a more general code.

Ancillary Codes

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

Acute pain due to trauma

G89.21
Use if pain is related to a traumatic event.

Muscle weakness

M62.83
Use if muscle weakness accompanies the pain.

Differential Codes

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

Forearm fracture

S52.5-
Confirmed fracture on imaging

Carpal tunnel syndrome, left arm

G56.22
Positive nerve conduction studies

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pain in Left Forearm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.632.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the side affected., Use templates that prompt for laterality.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'left forearm' to use M79.632.

Impact

Inadequate documentation can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Use detailed templates and ensure all clinical notes are specific.

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

Documentation Templates for Pain in Left Forearm

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

Chronic pain management

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Location of pain
  • Duration and severity
  • Associated symptoms
  • Diagnostic tests performed

Example Documentation

Subjective: 'Patient reports chronic pain in left forearm, worsens with activity.' Objective: 'Tenderness noted in left forearm, X-ray negative.' Assessment: M79.632. Plan: Physical therapy referral.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has arm pain.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports sharp pain in left forearm, negative X-ray for fracture.
Explanation
The good example specifies the location and includes diagnostic results, supporting the use of M79.632.

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

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