Stress fracture, unspecified tibia and fibula
ICD-10 M84.369 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of stress fracture, unspecified tibia and fibula.
A stress fracture of the tibia and fibula is a small crack in the bone that occurs due to repetitive force or overuse, often seen in athletes or individuals with increased physical activity. This condition is characterized by localized pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities and may improve with rest. The tibia, or shinbone, is the larger of the two bones in the lower leg, while the fibula is the thinner bone located alongside it. Stress fractures can arise from various factors, including inadequate bone density, osteoporosis, and poor biomechanics. In patients with osteoporosis, the bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures even from minor stress. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, and consideration of the patient's history of bone density disorders. Treatment often includes rest, modification of activities, and in some cases, physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve bone health. Understanding the underlying causes of stress fractures is crucial for effective management and prevention of future occurrences.
Detailed clinical notes on the mechanism of injury, imaging results, and treatment plan.
Athletes presenting with lower leg pain, patients with a history of osteoporosis experiencing new pain.
Ensure that all imaging studies are documented and correlate with clinical findings.
Assessment of bone density via DEXA scans and documentation of any underlying metabolic bone disorders.
Patients with osteoporosis presenting with stress fractures.
Document any medications affecting bone density, such as corticosteroids.
Used when imaging is performed to confirm a stress fracture diagnosis.
Document the reason for imaging and findings.
Orthopedic specialists should ensure imaging correlates with clinical findings.
Common causes include repetitive activities, sudden increases in physical activity, inadequate footwear, and underlying bone density disorders such as osteoporosis.
Prevention strategies include gradual increases in activity levels, proper footwear, strength training, and ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
