Lumbago with sciatica, right side

This code signifies lower back pain accompanied by radiating pain, numbness, or weakness that extends down the right leg, indicative of sciatic nerve involvement. The lumbago component refers to the general low back pain, while sciatica specifies the nerve root irritation causing symptoms along the sciatic nerve distribution.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states lumbago with sciatica affecting the patient's right side. This typically arises from conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome compressing the sciatic nerve roots. Supporting documentation should detail the location of both the back pain and the unilateral right-sided radiating symptoms.

• Ensure documentation specifies "right side" for the sciatica; otherwise, an unspecified or bilateral code may be more appropriate.
• Do not use this code if the sciatica is bilateral or exclusively on the left side.
• Consider sequencing this code after the underlying cause of the sciatica (e.g., herniated disc) if known and documented.