Unsteadiness On Feet ICD-10-CM Codes
Explore ICD-10-CM codes for unsteadiness on feet in 2023. Learn about common codes, billable statuses, and gain clinical insights in this comprehensive guide.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Unsteadiness On Feet
Unsteadiness on feet, also known as gait instability, is when individuals experience difficulty maintaining balance and coordination while walking. Here are ten commonly used ICD-10-CM codes for Unsteadiness On Feet, along with brief clinical descriptions:
R26.0 - Ataxia, unspecified: Used when there is gait instability or unsteadiness without a specific diagnosis of ataxia (loss of coordination).
R26.1 - Paralytic gait: Applied when unsteadiness on feet is due to paralysis or limb weakness.
R26.2 - Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified: Utilized for unsteadiness on feet that do not fit into other specific categories.
R26.81 - Unsteadiness on feet: Used to indicate unsteadiness on feet without a more specific diagnosis.
R26.89 - Other abnormalities of gait and mobility: Applied for gait abnormalities and unsteadiness not classified elsewhere.
G25.2 - Other specified forms of tremor: Utilized when specific tremors accompany unsteadiness on feet.
G25.69 - Other specified tremors: Used for other types associated with gait instability.
G81.9 - Paralytic syndrome, unspecified: Applied when unsteadiness on feet is due to an unspecified paralytic syndrome.
R27.0 - Ataxia, unspecified: Utilized when unsteadiness on feet is attributed to an unspecified ataxia.
R27.8 - Other lack of coordination: Used for lack of coordination not classified elsewhere, leading to unsteadiness on feet.
Which Unsteadiness On Feet ICD Codes are Billable
The billable status of the mentioned ICD-10 codes for unsteadiness on feet varies:
R26.0 - Ataxia, unspecified: Yes, billable. Medical expenses related to unsteadiness on feet due to unspecified ataxia can be claimed.
R26.1 - Paralytic gait: Yes, billable. Costs associated with unsteadiness on feet due to paralytic gait can be reimbursed.
R26.2 - Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for unsteadiness on feet not classified elsewhere can be claimed.
R26.81 - Unsteadiness on feet: Yes, billable. Expenses related to unsteadiness on feet without a specific diagnosis can be reimbursed.
R26.89 - Other abnormalities of gait and mobility: Yes, billable. Costs associated with other gait abnormalities and unsteadiness can be claimed.
G25.2 - Other specified forms of tremor: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for unsteadiness on feet accompanied by specified forms of tremor can be claimed.
G25.69 - Other specified tremor: Yes, billable. Expenses related to unsteadiness on feet accompanied by other specified tremors can be reimbursed.
G81.9 - Paralytic syndrome, unspecified: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for unsteadiness on feet due to unspecified paralytic syndrome can be claimed.
R27.0 - Ataxia, unspecified: Yes, billable. Costs associated with unsteadiness on feet attributed to unspecified ataxia can be reimbursed.
R27.8 - Other lack of coordination: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for lack of coordination leading to unsteadiness on feet can be claimed.
Clinical Information
- Unsteadiness on the feet, also known as gait instability, is a common clinical symptom with various potential underlying causes.
- Evaluation should include a detailed medical history, including symptoms' onset, duration, and progression.
- Assessing risk factors, such as age, medications, and medical conditions, is crucial in identifying potential causes.
- A thorough physical examination should focus on neurological and musculoskeletal components, including gait analysis.
- Diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the cause, such as imaging (e.g., MRI, CT scan) or nerve conduction studies.
- Potential causes of unsteadiness include peripheral neuropathy, inner ear disorders, orthopedic issues, or neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease.
- Treatment strategies vary based on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, medication adjustments, or surgical interventions.
- Falls risk assessment and prevention measures are essential, especially in older adults, to avoid injuries related to gait instability.
- Patient education should emphasize the importance of adherence to treatment plans, rehabilitation exercises, and safety measures.
- A comprehensive assessment and management may require multidisciplinary care involving neurologists, physical therapists, and orthopedic specialists.
Synonyms Include
- Gait Instability
- Balance Problems
- Unsteady Walking
- Difficulty in Walking
- Lack of Coordination
- Ataxic Gait
- Paralytic Gait
- Tremor-Related Gait Issues
Commonly asked questions
Medical conditions that can lead to unsteadiness on feet include neurological disorders (such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease), muscle weakness, joint problems (like arthritis), certain medications, vestibular disorders, and aging-related changes in balance.
Diagnosis of unsteadiness on feet typically involves a comprehensive medical evaluation, including a physical examination, medical history review, neurological tests, and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans. The underlying cause guides the diagnostic process.
Yes, treatment for unsteadiness on feet depends on the underlying cause. It may include physical therapy, medications, assistive devices (such as canes or walkers), lifestyle modifications, and managing any contributing medical conditions. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
