What is the ICD-10 code for foot drop?

The ICD-10 code for acquired foot drop is M21.37x, with laterality specified. If due to a peroneal nerve lesion, use G57.3.

How do you document foot drop for coding?

Documentation should specify whether the foot drop is acquired or congenital, the laterality, and any neurological causes.

ICD-10 Coding for Foot Drop(M21.37, G57.3, G83.81)

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Learn about ICD-10 coding for foot drop, including primary and secondary codes, documentation requirements, and common pitfalls.

Also known as:

Drop FootPeroneal Nerve Palsy

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Foot Drop

M00-M99Primary Range

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue

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Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

Code	Description	When to Use	Key Documentation
M21.37	Acquired foot drop	Use when foot drop is acquired without a neurological cause.	Documentation of acquired foot drop Physical exam showing no active dorsiflexion
G57.3	Lesion of lateral popliteal nerve	Use when foot drop is due to peroneal nerve injury.	EMG/NCS confirming peroneal neuropathy

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes

Foot drop (acquired)

M21.37

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions

Lesion of lateral popliteal nerveG57.3

Use when EMG confirms peroneal neuropathy.

Acquired foot dropM21.37

Use when no neurological cause is identified.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common issues when documenting Foot Drop.

Not specifying laterality

Impact

Clinical: Impacts treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation

Use documentation templates, Educate providers on specificity

Using unspecified laterality codes

Impact

Reimbursement: May affect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation

Query provider for specific laterality.

Specificity in coding

Impact

Lack of specificity can lead to audits.

Mitigation

Ensure all documentation specifies laterality and cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

Documentation requirements, coding pitfalls and FAQs for conditions coded with M21.37.

Primary Code

M21.37

Foot drop (acquired)

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ICD-10 codes5

Coding risks3

FAQs2

ICD-10 Coding for Foot Drop(M21.37, G57.3, G83.81)

Documentation & Coding Risks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for foot drop?

How do you document foot drop for coding?

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