Stress fracture, unsp tibia and fibula, init for fx

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting an unspecified bone within the lower leg (tibia or fibula) due to repetitive microtrauma, rather than an acute injury. It indicates that the patient is receiving initial active treatment for this specific fracture.

Use this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed stress fracture of either the tibia or fibula, where the specific bone is not documented. Documentation should clearly state "stress fracture" and indicate the initial phase of care, such as casting, bracing, or surgical intervention.

• Ensure documentation specifies "stress fracture" to differentiate from traumatic fractures.
• If the specific bone (tibia or fibula) is identified, use a more specific code from the M84.36- subcategory.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment; use subsequent characters for routine healing or sequela.