Causalgia of lower limb
ICD-10 G57.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of causalgia of lower limb.
Causalgia of the lower limb is a chronic pain condition characterized by severe burning pain, typically following an injury to a peripheral nerve. This condition is often associated with dysesthesia, allodynia, and hyperalgesia in the affected area. The pain may be accompanied by changes in skin color, temperature, and sweating, reflecting the underlying sympathetic nervous system involvement. Causalgia can arise from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or nerve entrapment syndromes. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by patient history and physical examination, and may involve nerve conduction studies to assess the integrity and function of the affected nerves. Treatment options include pharmacological management with analgesics, anticonvulsants, and nerve blocks, as well as physical therapy and psychological support. The complexity of causalgia lies in its multifactorial nature and the need for a comprehensive approach to management, which may involve multiple specialties.
Detailed neurological examination findings, including sensory and motor assessments.
Patients presenting with chronic pain following a lower limb injury or surgery.
Documentation should include the impact of symptoms on daily activities and any previous treatments attempted.
Comprehensive pain assessments, including pain scales and functional assessments.
Management of chronic pain syndromes with a focus on multimodal treatment strategies.
Documentation must reflect the interdisciplinary approach and any referrals to physical therapy or psychological support.
Used to assess nerve function in patients with suspected causalgia.
Document the specific nerves tested and the rationale for the study.
Neurologists should ensure that the study correlates with clinical findings.
The primary treatment for causalgia includes a combination of pharmacological therapies such as analgesics and anticonvulsants, along with physical therapy and possibly nerve blocks. A multidisciplinary approach is often necessary for effective management.
