ICD-10 Code for Spinal Stenosis: Get the Facts

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms, legs, and back.

The ICD-10 code for spinal stenosis is M48.09. This code is used to identify the condition in medical records and billing systems.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

The symptoms of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the neck, back, arms, or legs
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or feet
• Weakness in the arms, legs, or feet
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

Causes of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is most commonly caused by osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative condition that causes the cartilage in the spine to break down. Other causes include:

• Spondylolisthesis, which is a condition in which one vertebra slips forward or backward on another
• Paget's disease of bone, which is a condition that causes the bones to become thick and deformed
• Trauma, such as a car accident or fall

Diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is diagnosed based on a physical examination and a medical history. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for Spinal Stenosis

The treatment for spinal stenosis depends on the severity of the condition. Treatment options include:

• Medication, such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and steroids
• Physical therapy, to improve flexibility and strength
• Surgery, to widen the spinal canal and relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves

ICD-10 Codes for Spinal Stenosis

In addition to the ICD-10 code for spinal stenosis (M48.09), there are several other ICD-10 codes that can be used to identify the condition, depending on the location and severity of the narrowing. These codes include:

• M48.01 - Cervical stenosis without myelopathy
• M48.02 - Cervical stenosis with myelopathy
• M48.03 - Thoracic stenosis without myelopathy
• M48.04 - Thoracic stenosis with myelopathy
• M48.05 - Lumbar stenosis without myelopathy
• M48.06 - Lumbar stenosis with myelopathy
• M48.07 - Sacral stenosis without myelopathy
• M48.08 - Sacral stenosis with myelopathy
• M48.09 - Spinal stenosis, unspecified

ICD-10 Code for Spinal Stenosis: Conclusion

The ICD-10 code for spinal stenosis is M48.09. This code is used to identify the condition in medical records and billing systems. The symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of spinal stenosis can vary depending on the location and severity of the narrowing.