Gait Abnormalities ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023
Learn about the different ICD-10 codes that are used to diagnose gait abnormalities for accurate classification and documentation.
Fact Checked by Nate Lacson.
What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Gait Abnormalities?
A gait abnormality refers to an irregular walking pattern that deviates from the normal pattern. It can arise from various factors, including neurological or musculoskeletal disorders, as well as medical conditions like obesity.
Here are the Gait Abnormalities ICD Codes to use:
- R26.6
Used as a general code that can be used for any type of gait abnormality. The code R26.6 can be used to classify various gait abnormalities, including shuffling gait, wide-based gait, tapping gait, and waddling gait.
These abnormalities are associated with specific conditions such as Parkinson's disease, ataxia, chorea, and muscular dystrophy, respectively.
- R26.7
The ICD-10 code R26.7 is used for gait abnormalities resulting from neurological disorders. Neurological disorders encompass a range of conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, which can lead to various symptoms, including gait abnormalities.
- R26.8
Abnormal gait due to other medical conditions. These conditions can include arthritis, obesity, and other health issues that can impact the normal walking pattern.
The code is utilized to accurately document and classify cases of gait abnormalities caused by non-neurological medical conditions.
- R26.9
Utilized to classify cases of abnormal gait that cannot be specifically categorized into any other subtypes. It is used when the exact cause or nature of the gait abnormality is unknown or not further specified.
This code is employed in situations where healthcare providers may not have enough information or diagnostic clarity to assign a more specific code related to the abnormal gait observed in the patient.
It allows for the documentation and classification of cases where the gait abnormality falls under a generalized or unspecified category. Further evaluation and assessment may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of the abnormal gait.
Which Gait Abnormalities ICD codes are Billable?
All listed codes above are billable codes and can be used to designate a patient for reimbursement purposes.
Clinical Information
- Gait abnormalities refer to atypical walking patterns.
- It is common for young children to exhibit temporary gait abnormalities during their growth and development stages as they learn to walk.
- While parents may be concerned about their children's unusual walking patterns, it is essential to note that gait abnormalities are often a normal part of physical development.
- In most cases, children naturally outgrow these abnormalities without requiring medical intervention.
- Gait abnormalities tend to be more prevalent as individuals age.
- Approximately 15% of people develop a gait abnormality by the age of 60, while over 80% of individuals aged 85 and above experience a gait abnormality.
- In contrast, children are less likely to have gait abnormalities unless they have an underlying health condition or have suffered an injury.
Synonyms Include:
- Gait disturbances
- Walking abnormalities
- Gait disorders
- Abnormal walking patterns
- Locomotor abnormalities
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Commonly asked questions
Healthcare providers assign ICD-10 codes based on the specific type of gait abnormality, its underlying cause, and the severity observed. This standardized coding system aids in accurate communication, research, and billing related to gait abnormalities.
While some ICD-10 codes for gait abnormalities are billable,not all codes are billable. Certain codes are primarily intended for research or statistical purposes, allowing for tracking disease prevalence and other epidemiological data.
Gait abnormalities can arise from various factors, including neurological and musculoskeletal disorders, as well as medical conditions like obesity. The treatment approach for gait abnormalities is dependent on the underlying cause.
Common treatments include physical therapy to improve balance and strength, medication to address the underlying condition, surgical intervention in some instances, and the use of assistive devices like canes or walkers to aid mobility.
It is a classification tool in medical records, allowing healthcare providers to document and categorize different gait abnormalities. These codes are assigned based on the abnormality's specific characteristics, underlying causes, and severity.
