ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM21.212

M21.212

Billable

Flexion deformity, left shoulder

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M21.212 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of flexion deformity, left shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Flexion deformity of the left shoulder refers to a condition where the shoulder joint is unable to extend fully, resulting in a fixed position of flexion. This acquired deformity can arise from various causes, including trauma, neurological conditions, or prolonged immobilization. Patients may experience limited range of motion, pain, and functional impairment in daily activities. The condition can be associated with other musculoskeletal disorders, such as adhesive capsulitis or rotator cuff injuries. Treatment often involves physical therapy, surgical intervention, or corrective procedures to restore function and alleviate discomfort. Accurate diagnosis and documentation are crucial for effective management and coding, as the severity and underlying cause can significantly influence treatment options and outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acquired and congenital deformities
  • Identifying the underlying cause of the flexion deformity
  • Documenting associated conditions or comorbidities
  • Understanding the impact on functional status and daily activities

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the deformity's cause
  • Failure to document associated conditions
  • Incorrect coding of the laterality (left vs. right)
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with post-traumatic shoulder stiffness or adhesive capsulitis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all associated conditions are documented to support the diagnosis.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing range of motion assessments and treatment interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for shoulder flexion deformities.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and improvements to justify therapy services.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M21.212 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the deformity's cause and any associated conditions
  • Include details on laterality and the specific nature of the flexion deformity

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M21.212 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Shoulder arthroscopy

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of shoulder deformities.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic documentation must support the need for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding shoulder deformities, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding shoulder deformities, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of flexion deformity in the left shoulder?

Flexion deformity can result from various factors, including trauma, neurological conditions, or prolonged immobilization, leading to muscle imbalances and joint stiffness.