Sciatica, right side

This code signifies nerve pain originating from the right sciatic nerve, typically presenting as radiating pain, numbness, or weakness along the nerve's pathway from the lower back down the right leg. It indicates an inflammatory or compressive neuropathy affecting the right-sided sciatic nerve.

Apply this code when documentation clearly specifies sciatica affecting the patient's right side. This often includes symptoms like pain radiating from the right buttock down the posterior aspect of the right thigh and/or calf. Supporting documentation should detail the laterality of the symptoms.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "right side" for sciatica. Avoid using this code if laterality is unspecified or bilateral.
• Do not confuse with general low back pain (e.g., M54.5) or other radiculopathies unless sciatica is specifically diagnosed.
• Consider sequencing this code after a more specific underlying cause, such as a herniated disc (e.g., M51.1-) or spondylosis (e.g., M47.2-) with radiculopathy, if known.