M51.26 – Other Intervertebral Disc Displacement, Lumbar Region

Understand how to use ICD code M51.26 for Other Intervertebral Disc Displacement, Lumbar Region using this guide.

By Olivia Sayson on Jun 23, 2025.

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M51.26 diagnosis code: Other intervertebral disc displacement, lumbar region Is M51.26 billable?Additional clinical information Synonyms include Other ICD-10 codes commonly used for lumbar region FAQS

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M51.26 diagnosis code: Other intervertebral disc displacement, lumbar region

M51.26 is an International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‑10‑CM, often written as ICD 10-CM) code that classifies “Other intervertebral disc displacement, lumbar region.” It falls within the family of lumbosacral intervertebral disc disorders and is applied when a lumbar intervertebral disc is displaced because of an intervertebral annulus fibrosus defect—a failure of the disc’s connective tissue—yet the lesion does not meet classic criteria for a bulge, prolapse, or herniated disc.

Such displacement in the lumbar spine commonly compresses nerve roots, producing characteristic lumbar back pain that may radiate as lower extremity pain, weakness, or sensory changes. By specifying the lumbar rather than the thoracic region, M51.26 ensures precise documentation of this musculoskeletal system condition for both clinical management and reimbursement.

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Is M51.26 billable?

Yes, the ICD code M51.26 is billable.

Additional clinical information

Intervertebral disc displacement is a common condition affecting individuals of all ages, but it is more common in people over 30 years old. It can be caused by various factors such as aging, degenerative disc disease, trauma, or poor posture.

Symptoms of intervertebral disc displacement can vary depending on the severity and location of the displacement. Common symptoms include low back pain, muscle spasms, tingling or numbness in the legs or feet, weakness in the legs, and difficulty standing or walking.

Diagnosis of intervertebral disc displacement is usually based on a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Treatment options include pain management, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and in severe cases, surgery.

Synonyms include

M51.27 - Other intervertebral disc displacement, lumbosacral region
M51.28 - Other intervertebral disc displacement, sacral, and sacrococcygeal region
M51.36 - Other intervertebral disc degeneration, lumbar region
M54.16 - Radiculopathy, lumbar region

Other ICD-10 codes commonly used for lumbar region

Here are other ICD codes healthcare providers typically use for lthe umbar region:

M54.5 - Chronic low back pain
M54.4 - Lumbago with sciatica
M54.16 - Radiculopathy, lumbar region
M47.16 - Other spondylosis with radiculopathy, lumbar region
M48.06 - Spinal stenosis, lumbar region
M54.17 - Radiculopathy, sacral and sacrococcygeal region

Frequently asked questions

What causes discogenic back pain, and how is it related to disc displacement?

Discogenic back pain originates from the intervertebral disc itself, often due to internal degeneration or structural failure, such as a displacement of the disc components. This condition may involve the nucleus pulposus pushing through an annular tear.

How is disc displacement diagnosed when the size of the herniation is unspecified?

In cases where the disc displacement is documented as unspecified size, imaging studies such as MRI are still crucial for guiding a diagnostic interpretation.

What distinguishes thoracolumbar disc herniation from other spinal diseases?

Herniation in the thoracolumbar region occurs when the disc material extends beyond its normal boundaries between two vertebrae, potentially leading to compression of the spinal nerves and resulting in functional impairment. Unlike other spinal diseases, such as tumors or infections, disc displacement is mechanical and often results from trauma, degeneration, or overuse. Accurate classification in the ICD-10-CM ensures appropriate diagnostic and procedural coding for each patient.