ICD Code M54.17

ICD code M54.17 is a medical classification used to denote radiculopathy in the lumbosacral region, which refers to a condition where there is pain, weakness, numbness, or difficulty controlling specific muscles due to a problem with the nerve roots in the lower back and sacral area. This code is used by healthcare providers to accurately document and communicate the diagnosis for billing and treatment purposes.

1. Lower Back Pain: Persistent or recurring pain localized in the lower back region, which may radiate down the legs.

2. Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling in the lower back, buttocks, or legs.

3. Muscle Weakness: Noticeable weakness in the muscles of the lower back, buttocks, or legs, potentially affecting mobility and balance.

4. Reflex Changes: Altered or diminished reflexes in the lower extremities, which may be observed during a physical examination.

5. Sensory Loss: Loss of sensation or decreased sensitivity to touch, temperature, or pain in the lumbosacral region or legs.

6. Radiating Pain: Pain that originates in the lower back and radiates down the sciatic nerve pathway, often extending to the buttocks, thighs, and legs.

7. Difficulty with Movement: Challenges in performing movements such as bending, twisting, or lifting due to pain or discomfort in the lumbosacral region.

8. Positive Straight Leg Raise Test: Pain elicited during a straight leg raise test, indicating nerve root irritation or compression.

9. Imaging Findings: Diagnostic imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, showing evidence of nerve root compression or other abnormalities in the lumbosacral region.

10. History of Trauma or Injury: A history of trauma or injury to the lower back that correlates with the onset of symptoms.

These criteria and symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate use of the ICD code for radiculopathy in the lumbosacral region.

For the ICD code M54.17 (Radiculopathy, lumbosacral region), the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 20552 - Injection(s); single or multiple trigger point(s), 1 or 2 muscle(s).

2. CPT 20553 - Injection(s); single or multiple trigger point(s), 3 or more muscles.

3. CPT 20610 - Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee joint, subacromial bursa); without ultrasound guidance.

4. CPT 62322 - Injection(s), of diagnostic or therapeutic substance(s) (e.g., anesthetic, antispasmodic, opioid, steroid, other solution), not including neurolytic substances, including needle or catheter placement, interlaminar epidural or subarachnoid, lumbar or sacral (caudal); without imaging guidance.

5. CPT 62323 - Injection(s), of diagnostic or therapeutic substance(s) (e.g., anesthetic, antispasmodic, opioid, steroid, other solution), not including neurolytic substances, including needle or catheter placement, interlaminar epidural or subarachnoid, lumbar or sacral (caudal); with imaging guidance (i.e., fluoroscopy or CT).

6. CPT 64483 - Injection(s), anesthetic agent and/or steroid, transforaminal epidural; lumbar or sacral, single level.

7. CPT 64484 - Injection(s), anesthetic agent and/or steroid, transforaminal epidural; lumbar or sacral, each additional level (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).

8. CPT 97110 - Therapeutic exercises to develop strength and endurance, range of motion, and flexibility (each 15 minutes).

9. CPT 97140 - Manual therapy techniques (e.g., mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, manual traction), one or more regions, each 15 minutes.

These CPT codes are commonly associated with the treatment of conditions related to radiculopathy in the lumbosacral region. However, the specific codes used will depend on the individual patient's treatment plan and the healthcare provider's clinical judgment. Always verify with the latest coding guidelines and payer policies.

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