Bilateral Knee Pain ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

Explore ICD-10 codes for Bilateral Knee Pain, understand their clinical use, and learn which are billable in our comprehensive guide.

By Joshua Napilay on Aug 8, 2025.

Fact Checked by Nate Lacson.

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What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Bilateral Knee Pain?

Bilateral knee pain is a common complaint that can arise from various causes, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and injury. Healthcare professionals use specific codes known as ICD-10 codes to categorize and diagnose this condition.

Here are some commonly used ICD-10 codes for bilateral knee pain:

M25.569 - Pain in unspecified knee: This code is used when the specific cause of the knee pain is not identified. It represents general knee discomfort that isn't linked to a specific diagnosis.
M17.0 - Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of knee: This code is used when the knee pain is directly related to primary osteoarthritis affecting both knees.
M17.2 - Bilateral post-traumatic osteoarthritis of knee: This code is used when the knee pain results from post-traumatic osteoarthritis in both knees.
M25.561 - Pain in right knee and M25.562 - Pain in left knee: These codes are used individually to specify which knee is in pain, but when used together, they indicate bilateral knee pain.
M32.9 - Systemic lupus erythematosus, unspecified: This code is used when the knee pain is associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and pain in the joints, including the knees.
M06.9 - Rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified: This code is used when the knee pain is caused by rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect multiple joints, including the knees.

These codes help healthcare professionals accurately diagnose and treat bilateral knee pain based on its underlying cause.

To understand these codes better, you might find this explainer video useful. It provides a detailed overview of ICD-10 codes and their role in diagnosing conditions like bilateral knee pain.

Which Bilateral Knee Pain ICD codes are Billable?

Here's a list of commonly used ICD-10 codes for bilateral knee pain and whether or not they are billable:

M25.569 - Pain in unspecified knee: Yes, this is a billable code.
M17.0 - Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of knee: Yes, this is a billable code.
M17.2 - Bilateral post-traumatic osteoarthritis of knee: Yes, this is a billable code.
M25.561 - Pain in right knee: Yes, this is a billable code.
M25.562 - Pain in left knee: Yes, this is a billable code.
M32.9 - Systemic lupus erythematosus, unspecified: Yes, this is a billable code.‍
M06.9 - Rheumatoid arthritis, unspecified: Yes, this is a billable code.

Clinical Information

Bilateral knee pain refers to discomfort or distress in both knees. Here are some key clinical points:

It can arise from a variety of causes, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and physical injuries.
Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, decreased range of motion, and difficulty walking.
Risk factors for knee pain include age, obesity, physical activity levels, previous injury, and certain diseases such as diabetes and gout.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, patient history, and possibly imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It may include rest, physical therapy, medication, use of assistive devices, or in severe cases, surgery.
Conservative treatments like weight management, regular exercise, and use of over-the-counter pain relievers can often help manage symptoms.
In some cases, knee pain might be a sign of a more serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if the knee pain is accompanied by severe swelling, an obvious deformity, inability to use the joint, intense pain, or sudden onset.
Preventing knee pain involves maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, wearing supportive footwear, warming up before physical activities, and avoiding repetitive strain on the knees.

Synonyms Include

Pain in Both Knees
Symmetrical Knee Discomfort
Dual Knee Pain
Two-sided Knee Ache
Double Knee Pain

Commonly asked questions

A Bilateral Knee Pain ICD code should be used when a patient has been diagnosed with pain in both knees. These codes are useful for precision in diagnosis, treatment planning, and medical billing.

Yes, Bilateral Knee Pain diagnoses are typically billable. Codes like M25.569 (Pain in unspecified knee), M17.0 (Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of knee), and others are billable. However, the exact coverage may vary depending on the specific insurance provider.

The treatment for bilateral knee pain depends on the underlying cause. It could range from rest, physical therapy, and medication, to surgical interventions in severe cases. Lifestyle changes such as weight management and regular exercise can also help manage symptoms.

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