Intervertebral disc disorders w radiculopathy, lumbar region

This code signifies a condition where a disc in the lower back (lumbar spine) is abnormal, causing nerve root compression that results in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating into the leg. It specifically points to neurological involvement stemming from the disc pathology in the lumbar region.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a lumbar intervertebral disc disorder, such as a herniated disc or degenerative disc disease, is causing radicular symptoms. Supporting documentation would include a physician's diagnosis of lumbar radiculopathy due to disc pathology, often confirmed by imaging studies (e.g., MRI) and neurological examination findings.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the radiculopathy to a lumbar disc disorder; do not assume causation.
• Distinguish from codes for disc disorders without radiculopathy (e.g., M51.2-) or radiculopathy from other causes.
• Consider sequencing with codes for specific disc degeneration (e.g., M51.36) if further specificity is documented.