Sciatica, left side

This code represents radicular pain originating from the left sciatic nerve, typically caused by compression or irritation of nerve roots in the lumbar spine. Patients often experience pain, numbness, or tingling radiating down the left leg, often extending below the knee.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates sciatica affecting the patient's left side. This diagnosis is supported by findings such as a positive straight leg raise test on the left, sensory deficits in the left lower extremity, or imaging (e.g., MRI) showing left-sided nerve root compression.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "left side" for accurate laterality.
• Do not use this code if the sciatica is bilateral or unspecified; instead, use M54.30 or M54.31 as appropriate.
• Code any underlying cause of the sciatica (e.g., lumbar disc herniation, spondylolisthesis) as a primary diagnosis, with this code as a secondary diagnosis.