Understanding Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)? This resource provides information on diagnosis, treatment, and clinical documentation of adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder. Learn about shoulder stiffness, its associated ICD-10 codes, and best practices for healthcare professionals dealing with frozen shoulder and related conditions. Explore effective management strategies and improve your medical coding accuracy for optimal reimbursement.
Also known as
Adhesive capsulitis of shoulder
Frozen shoulder, causing stiffness and pain.
Other adhesive capsulitis
Adhesive capsulitis not in the shoulder.
Pain in shoulder region
Pain localized to the shoulder, including frozen shoulder pain.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the frozen shoulder primary (idiopathic)?
Yes
Code M75.01
No
Is it due to a systemic disease?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Frozen shoulder causing stiffness and pain. |
| Rotator cuff tear causing shoulder pain and weakness. |
| Shoulder impingement with pain on lifting arm. |
Missing or incorrect laterality (right, left, bilateral) for Frozen Shoulder (F) diagnosis impacts reimbursement and data accuracy.
Using non-specific F code (e.g., pain) instead of M75.0 for Frozen Shoulder may lead to claim denials or underpayment. CDI opportunity.
Vague documentation lacking specific Frozen Shoulder diagnostic criteria can result in coding errors and compliance issues. Needs physician clarification.
Q: What are the most effective evidence-based treatment options for managing adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder in the freezing stage?
A: The freezing stage of adhesive capsulitis, characterized by increasing pain and progressive loss of range of motion, requires a multi-pronged treatment approach focusing on pain management and preserving mobility. Evidence suggests that a combination of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, and gentle range-of-motion exercises can be effective. Physical therapy modalities like heat therapy and ultrasound can also be incorporated to alleviate pain and improve tissue extensibility. Explore how early intervention with these therapies can prevent disease progression and minimize long-term functional limitations. Consider implementing a patient-specific exercise program focusing on active-assisted range of motion to minimize stiffness and maintain function. Note that forceful manipulation or aggressive stretching should be avoided in this phase as it may exacerbate inflammation and pain. Learn more about the specific exercise protocols recommended for the freezing stage of adhesive capsulitis.
Q: How can clinicians differentiate frozen shoulder from other shoulder conditions like rotator cuff tear or glenohumeral osteoarthritis based on physical examination findings?
A: Differentiating frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) from other shoulder pathologies requires careful evaluation of both active and passive range of motion. In frozen shoulder, both active and passive range of motion are significantly restricted in a capsular pattern (external rotation > abduction > internal rotation). Rotator cuff tears, on the other hand, typically present with weakness on specific strength tests and may have relatively preserved passive range of motion. Glenohumeral osteoarthritis often presents with crepitus during movement, pain on weight-bearing, and limited range of motion, primarily affecting external rotation and abduction. A thorough physical exam, including palpation for tenderness, assessment of scapulohumeral rhythm, and specific impingement tests, is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Explore how incorporating special tests like the Apley scratch test and the Neer impingement test can further enhance diagnostic accuracy. Consider implementing a standardized physical examination protocol for shoulder pain to ensure consistent and accurate assessment. Learn more about advanced imaging techniques such as MRI or arthrography, which can be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other pathologies in complex cases.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, characterized by significant shoulder stiffness and pain, restricting range of motion. Onset was gradual, reported as [Onset - acute/insidious/gradual] approximately [Duration] ago. Pain is described as [Pain quality - e.g., aching, sharp, burning] and located [Pain location - e.g., anterior shoulder, radiating down arm]. Patient reports difficulty with [Activities of daily living affected - e.g., reaching overhead, dressing, sleeping]. Physical examination reveals limited active and passive range of motion in [Specify plane of motion - e.g., abduction, external rotation, internal rotation] with palpable muscle guarding and tenderness upon palpation at the [Location of tenderness - e.g., glenohumeral joint]. No crepitus noted. Neurovascular examination of the affected extremity is intact. Differential diagnosis includes rotator cuff tear, glenohumeral arthritis, and cervical radiculopathy. Based on the patient's history, physical examination findings, and the absence of other apparent pathology, the diagnosis of frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is made. Treatment plan includes physical therapy focusing on range of motion exercises, pain management with [Specify pain management plan - e.g., NSAIDs, ice/heat therapy], and patient education regarding the natural history of the condition. Follow-up scheduled in [Duration] to assess response to treatment and consider further interventions such as corticosteroid injection or manipulation under anesthesia if indicated. ICD-10 code M75.01 is assigned.