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ICD-10 Coding for Unspecified Shoulder Pain(M25.519)

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

Also known as:

Shoulder Pain NOSShoulder Pain Unspecified

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Unspecified Shoulder Pain

M25.50-M25.59Primary Range

Other joint disorders, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for joint disorders, including unspecified shoulder pain.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for unspecified shoulder pain

Essential facts and insights about Unspecified Shoulder Pain

The ICD-10 code for unspecified shoulder pain is M25.519, used when laterality is not specified and no specific cause is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for shoulder pain unspecified

Pain in unspecified shoulder
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Pain without specific etiology and no laterality documented.

documentation Criteria

  • Negative imaging results for structural damage.

Applicable To

  • Shoulder pain NOS

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Tenderness on palpation
  • Limited range of motion
  • Negative imaging for fracture or dislocation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using when laterality is documented
  • Failing to document negative imaging

Coding Notes

  • Ensure no laterality is documented when using M25.519.

Ancillary Codes

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

Unspecified shoulder lesion

M75.9
Use if structural abnormality is suspected but unconfirmed.

Differential Codes

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

Rotator cuff tear or rupture, not specified as traumatic

M75.101
Use if imaging confirms a rotator cuff tear.

Adhesive capsulitis of shoulder

M75.00
Use if stiffness is a primary symptom along with pain.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Unspecified Shoulder Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M25.519.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging results are included in the documentation., Review documentation for completeness before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use M25.511 for right shoulder pain or M25.512 for left shoulder pain.

Impact

High audit risk if laterality is documented but unspecified code is used.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation supports the use of unspecified codes.

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 Unspecified Shoulder Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Unspecified Shoulder Pain

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

Orthopedic Clinic Visit

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Subjective: Patient's description of pain
  • Objective: Physical exam findings
  • Assessment: Diagnosis and differential
  • Plan: Treatment and follow-up

Example Documentation

**Subjective**: Patient reports chronic shoulder pain, side unspecified. **Objective**: Tenderness at joint line, limited ROM. **Assessment**: Shoulder pain, unspecified (M25.519). **Plan**: PT referral.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Shoulder pain. Advise PT.
Good Documentation Example
Chronic unspecified shoulder pain x 8 weeks. Tender at supraspinatus insertion. XR negative. Dx: M25.519. Referred to PT for scapular stabilization.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the pain, imaging results, and treatment plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Unspecified Shoulder Pain? Ask your questions below.

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