Find information on Hallux Limitus diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding (ICD-10 M20.10, M20.11), treatment, and healthcare resources. Learn about stiff big toe, limited range of motion, first metatarsophalangeal joint pain, and dorsal bunion formation related to Hallux Limitus. Explore effective management strategies and improve your understanding of this foot condition.
Also known as
Hallux valgus (acquired)
Hallux limitus is a form of hallux valgus.
Acquired deformities of toe(s)
Includes various acquired toe deformities like hallux limitus.
Dorsopathies of the foot and ankle
Encompasses foot and ankle disorders, including some causing hallux limitus.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the hallux limitus acquired?
Yes
Is it post-traumatic?
No
Is it rigidus?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Limited big toe joint motion |
Rigid big toe joint |
Turf toe |
Coding Hallux Limitus without specifying right, left, or bilateral can lead to claim rejections and inaccurate data reporting. Use modifiers RT, LT, or 50.
Miscoding Hallux Rigidus (M20.2x) as Limitus (M20.1x) or vice versa based on incomplete documentation affects reimbursement and quality metrics.
Insufficient clinical details to support the diagnosis of Hallux Limitus can cause denials and compliance issues. CDI can clarify documentation.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with hallux limitus, characterized by restricted range of motion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ). Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and limited dorsiflexion of the great toe, exacerbated by activities such as walking, running, and squatting. The patient reports experiencing dorsal first MTPJ pain, sometimes described as a burning or aching sensation. On physical examination, decreased dorsiflexion of the hallux is noted, potentially accompanied by palpable crepitus or a bony prominence (dorsal osteophyte) on the dorsal aspect of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Assessment includes evaluation for hallux rigidus, osteoarthritis of the first MTPJ, and first metatarsophalangeal joint pain. Differential diagnosis includes sesamoiditis, gout, and turf toe. Initial treatment plan includes conservative measures such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), shoe modifications (e.g., wide toe box shoes), orthotics (e.g., Morton's extension), and physical therapy focused on range of motion exercises and joint mobilization. Radiographic imaging (X-ray) of the foot is ordered to assess the degree of joint degeneration and confirm the diagnosis of hallux limitus. Further treatment options, including corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention (e.g., cheilectomy, arthrodesis), will be considered if conservative management fails to provide adequate symptom relief. Patient education regarding activity modification and proper footwear is provided. Follow-up appointment scheduled to monitor treatment progress and adjust the plan as needed.