Unsteady Gait ICD-10-CM Codes

Unsteady Gait ICD-10-CM Codes

Check out our mini guide to ICD-10 codes for unsteady gait. Learn more about their codes, billability, and clinical information on the main diagnosis.

By Karina Jimenea on Jul 16, 2025.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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What ICD-10 codes are used for unsteady gait?

There are several unsteady gait ICD codes when coding or billing. Though there is no code that implicitly states "unsteady gait" in its description, related codes are classified under abnormalities of gait and mobility (R26) in the ICD-10-CM classification. Note, however, that type 1 doesn't include conditions like ataxia NOS, hereditary ataxia, locomotor (syphilitic) ataxia , or immobility syndrome (paraplegic).

Here's a list of some codes for unsteady gait:

  • R26.0: Ataxic gait
  • R26.1: Paralytic gait (spastic gait)
  • R26.2: Difficulty in walking, not elsewhere classified
  • R26.81: Unsteadiness on feet
  • R26.89: Other abnormalities of gait and mobility
  • R26.9: Unspecified abnormalities of gait and mobility
  • R29.6: Repeated falls

Which unsteady gait ICD codes are billable?

All of the codes mentioned above are billable.

Clinical information

  • A patient has an unsteady gait when walking is unsteady, uncoordinated or abnormal. 
  • Some symptoms of unsteady gait are stumbling, walking slowly, having a wide stance, lacking balance, feeling unsteady, being dizzy, having vertigo, or shuffling when walking. 
  • Various disorders like cardiovascular, neurologic, musculoskeletal, and certain prescription medications can cause an unsteady gait. 
  • To diagnose an unsteady gait, practitioners will check one's medical history, observe one's walking, and have them undergo tests like vision tests, blood tests, hearing tests, etc., in case there are accompanying symptoms. 
  • Treatment is targeted to cure or manage the condition causing the unsteady gait, which may include prescription medications, medical devices, surgery, and physical therapy such as gait training.

Synonyms include

  • Gait disorder, ataxic
  • Gait disorder, stumbling
  • Gait disorder, spastic
  • Difficulty walking
  • Cautious gait
  • Postural instability gait disorder
  • Gait disorder due to weakness
  • Gait disorder, painful gait
  • Gait disturbance
  • Gait abnormalities
  • Multifactorial gait disorder

Related ICDs

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