M79.601 – Pain in right arm

Learn about the ICD 10 code M79.601 - Pain in right arm through this short guide.

By Matt Olivares on May 08, 2025.

Fact Checked by Karina Jimenea.

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M79.601 – Pain in right arm

M79.601 diagnosis code: Pain in right arm

Pain in the right arm, designated as M79.601, is characterized by discomfort, soreness, or distress experienced in the upper extremity. This diagnosis code is specific to pain in the right arm and assists healthcare professionals in accurately documenting and classifying the condition for diagnostic and billing purposes.

Understanding the localization, symptoms, potential causes, and appropriate diagnostic evaluation helps formulate an accurate diagnosis and determine the most effective treatment plan for patients experiencing this condition. Prompt evaluation and intervention can alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals affected by pain in the right arm.

Is M79.601 billable?

Yes, M79.601 is a billable ICD-10 code. It indicates a diagnosis of pain in the right arm and can be used to obtain reimbursement from insurance companies for medical services related to this condition. Please don't use this if you're currently dealing with a patient with pain in an unspecified upper arm, if they feel bilateral upper limb pain, or if the pain is in the left arm.

  • It is a specific code that accurately describes the patient's condition.
  • It is supported by medical documentation, such as a doctor's diagnosis.
  • It is consistent with current medical practice.

Clinical information

Here are key information:

Localization of pain

  • The pain is primarily localized in the right arm, encompassing the region from the shoulder to the fingertips.
  • The severity and exact location of the pain may vary depending on the underlying cause.

Symptoms and presentation

  • Patients may describe the pain as sharp, throbbing, aching, or a combination of these sensations.
  • The pain may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or restricted range of motion. There might even be soft tissue pain.
  • The intensity and duration of the pain can also vary, ranging from mild to intermittent to severe and constant.

Potential causes

  • Musculoskeletal conditions and (unspecified) soft tissue disorders: Pain in the right arm can result from various musculoskeletal issues, including tendonitis, bursitis, rotator cuff injuries, fractures, sprains, or strains.
  • Nerve-related conditions: Pinched nerves, such as in cervical radiculopathy or thoracic outlet syndrome, may cause referred pain to the right arm.
  • Vascular conditions: Certain vascular disorders, like peripheral artery disease or deep vein thrombosis, can manifest as arm pain.
  • Overuse or repetitive strain: Activities involving repetitive arm movements or excessive strain can lead to arm pain, such as in tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Diagnostic evaluation

  • It is crucial to have a comprehensive medical history, including details about the onset, duration, and nature of the pain.
  • Physical examination, assessing the range of motion, muscle strength, sensation, and visible abnormalities, aids in diagnosis.
  • To identify the underlying cause, additional diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, MRI, ultrasound, electromyography (EMG), or nerve conduction studies, may be ordered.

Treatment and management

  • Treatment approaches depend on the specific diagnosis and severity of the condition.
  • Conservative measures may include rest, physical therapy, pain-relieving medications, application of heat or cold, and activity modification.
  • In more severe cases or when conservative measures are ineffective, interventions such as corticosteroid injections, surgical procedures, or referral to a specialist may be considered.

Synonyms include

  • Right arm pain
  • Pain in the right upper extremity
  • Right upper limb pain
  • Pain in the right arm and shoulder
  • Right brachial pain
  • Chronic pain in the right arm
  • Right arm pain caused by other soft tissue disorders
  • Pain in the right auxiliary muscles
  • Pain in the connective tissues of the right arm

Popular search terms for this ICD 10 CM code

  • M79.601 ICD-10 code
  • ICD-10 M79.601
  • M79.601 diagnosis code
  • ICD-10 code for pain in the right arm

Other ICD-10 CM codes commonly used for pain

Frequently asked questions

What are the common causes of pain in the right arm?

Pain in the right arm can have various causes, including musculoskeletal conditions (such as tendonitis and fractures), nerve-related conditions (such as pinched nerves), vascular disorders, or overuse/repetitive strain injuries.

What are the symptoms of pain in the right arm?

Symptoms can vary but commonly include discomfort, soreness, numbness, tingling, weakness, or restricted range of motion in the right arm. The pain may be sharp, throbbing, or aching in nature.

How is M79.601 diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and potential imaging studies or nerve conduction studies to determine the underlying cause of the arm pain.

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