Knee Strain ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

Explore ICD-10-CM codes for knee strain in 2023. Learn about common codes, billable statuses, and gain clinical insights in this comprehensive guide.

By Jamie Frew on Feb 29, 2024.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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Knee Strain ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Knee Strain

A knee strain refers to an injury to the muscles or tendons around the knee joint. Here are commonly used ICD-10-CM codes for knee strain, along with brief clinical descriptions:

  • S76.011 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the anterior muscle group at thigh level, right leg: Used for strains to the muscles and tendons of the anterior muscle group at thigh level on the right leg.
  • S76.012 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the anterior muscle group at thigh level, left leg: Applied for strains to the muscles and tendons of the anterior muscle group at thigh level on the left leg.
  • S76.013 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the anterior muscle group at thigh level, unspecified leg: Utilized when the leg (right or left) is not specified in cases of strains to the anterior muscle group at thigh level.
  • S76.021 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the posterior muscle group at thigh level, right leg: Used for strains to the muscles and tendons of the posterior muscle group at thigh level on the right leg.
  • S76.022 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the posterior muscle group at thigh level, left leg: Applied for strains to the muscles and tendons of the posterior muscle group at thigh level on the left leg.
  • S76.023 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the posterior muscle group at thigh level, unspecified leg: Utilized when the leg (right or left) is not specified in cases of strains to the posterior muscle group at thigh level.

Which Knee Strain ICD Codes are Billable

The billable status of the mentioned ICD-10 codes for knee strain varies:

  • S76.011 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the anterior muscle group at thigh level, right leg: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for this specific strain of the right leg can be claimed.
  • S76.012 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the anterior muscle group at thigh level, left leg: Yes, billable. Costs associated with this specific strain of the left leg can be reimbursed.
  • S76.013 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the anterior muscle group at thigh level, unspecified leg: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for this strain without specifying the leg can be claimed.
  • S76.021 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the posterior muscle group at thigh level, right leg: Yes, billable. Expenses for this specific strain of the right leg can be claimed.
  • S76.022 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the posterior muscle group at thigh level, left leg: Yes, billable. Costs associated with this specific strain of the left leg can be reimbursed.
  • S76.023 - Strain of muscle(s) and tendon(s) of the posterior muscle group at thigh level, unspecified leg: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for this strain without specifying the leg can be claimed.

Clinical Information

  • A Knee Strain is an injury to the muscles or tendons around the knee joint, often caused by overstretching or overuse.
  • Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, including a review of the patient's medical history, and may include imaging (X-rays or MRI) to rule out more severe injuries.
  • Treatment typically includes the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relief may be prescribed.
  • Physical therapy is often recommended to improve strength, flexibility and aid rehabilitation.
  • Patient education should include guidance on the importance of rest, proper icing techniques, and adherence to the prescribed rehabilitation plan.
  • Follow-up and regular monitoring are essential to assess healing progress and ensure a safe return to physical activities.
  • Healthcare practitioners should provide comprehensive care and guidance to help patients recover from knee strain, prevent future injuries, and support their return to an active lifestyle.

Synonyms Include

  • Muscle and Tendon Strain
  • Thigh Muscle Injury
  • Knee Muscle Strain
  • S76.011
  • S76.021
  • ICD-10 Knee Strain
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Commonly asked questions

How can I prevent knee strains?

To prevent knee strains, it's important to maintain good physical conditioning, warm up before exercise, use proper techniques during physical activities, and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help.

When should I see a doctor for a knee strain?

If you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or inability to bear weight on the affected leg, or if the symptoms do not improve with self-care measures, you should consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and treatment.

What's the difference between a knee strain and a knee sprain?

A knee strain involves the muscles or tendons around the knee, while a knee sprain typically refers to an injury to the ligaments that stabilize the knee joint. Both can cause pain and limitations in knee function.

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