Find information on neck spasm diagnosis, including clinical documentation, ICD-10 codes (M54.2), muscle spasm treatment, cervical dystonia, and acute neck pain. Learn about proper medical coding for neck spasms, torticollis, and related symptoms like stiff neck and limited range of motion. Explore resources for healthcare professionals on diagnosing and managing neck spasms, including differential diagnosis and treatment options. This resource provides valuable insights into neck spasm for physicians, coders, and other healthcare providers.
Also known as
Cervicalgia
Neck pain and stiffness.
Dorsalgia
Pain in the back, including the neck region.
Spasm and cramps
Muscle spasms, including those that may occur in the neck.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the neck spasm related to trauma?
Yes
Current injury?
No
Is it acute/torticollis?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Sudden neck pain, stiffness, limited motion |
Cervical radiculopathy |
Cervical spondylosis |
Using unspecified codes like M79.1 (Neck pain) when a more specific spasm diagnosis (e.g., cervical dystonia) is documented, leading to undercoding.
Failing to code the underlying cause of the neck spasm (e.g., injury, neurological condition) which impacts DRG assignment and reimbursement.
Insufficient documentation of laterality (left, right, bilateral) for neck spasm impacting accurate coding and medical necessity of procedures/treatments.
Patient presents with acute neck pain and muscle spasm, consistent with a diagnosis of neck spasm or acute cervicalgia. Onset of symptoms was [Date of onset] and is described as [Character of pain: sharp, dull, aching, throbbing, etc.] and located in the [Location: cervical spine, upper back, radiating to shoulder/head, etc.]. Patient reports [Exacerbating factors: worsening with movement, certain postures, stress, etc.] and [Relieving factors: rest, ice, heat, over-the-counter medications, etc.]. Physical examination reveals [Objective findings: limited range of motion, muscle tenderness, palpable spasm in the [Specific muscle group: trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, etc.], trigger points, crepitus, and postural abnormalities. Neurological examination is [Normal or Abnormal, specify if abnormal] including [Sensory and motor function assessment, deep tendon reflexes]. Differential diagnoses considered include cervical radiculopathy, whiplash injury, and degenerative disc disease. Initial treatment plan includes conservative management with [Specific treatment modalities: rest, ice/heat therapy, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, muscle relaxants, physical therapy referral for range of motion exercises, stretching, and strengthening]. Patient education provided on proper posture, ergonomics, and activity modification. Follow-up scheduled in [Duration] to assess response to treatment and adjust plan as needed. Medical necessity for treatment established based on functional limitations and pain interfering with activities of daily living. ICD-10 code M54.2, Cervicalgia, is documented for billing purposes.