Wrist or foot drop (acquired)
ICD-10 M21.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of wrist or foot drop (acquired).
Wrist or foot drop (acquired) refers to the inability to actively dorsiflex the wrist or foot due to weakness or paralysis of the muscles responsible for this movement. This condition can arise from various causes, including nerve injuries, neurological disorders, or muscular diseases. Acquired wrist drop is often associated with radial nerve palsy, which can occur due to trauma, compression, or prolonged pressure on the nerve. Foot drop, on the other hand, is frequently linked to peroneal nerve injury, which may result from trauma, surgery, or conditions such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Patients may present with a characteristic gait pattern, where they drag their foot or lift their knee higher to avoid dragging the toes. Treatment options may include physical therapy, orthotic devices, and in some cases, surgical interventions to relieve nerve compression or repair damaged nerves. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation.
Detailed neurological examination findings, including muscle strength and reflexes.
Patients presenting with weakness in wrist or foot movement following trauma or neurological disease.
Ensure documentation includes the specific nerve affected and any associated neurological conditions.
Surgical notes, imaging studies, and post-operative assessments.
Post-surgical patients experiencing drop due to nerve injury or compression.
Document the surgical procedure and any complications that may lead to drop.
Used when surgical intervention is required for nerve repair.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.
Orthopedic or neurosurgery documentation must clearly outline the rationale for surgery.
Wrist drop refers to the inability to extend the wrist due to radial nerve injury, while foot drop is the inability to dorsiflex the foot due to peroneal nerve injury. Both conditions can result from acquired causes and require specific documentation for accurate coding.
