Stress fracture, unsp foot, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a stress fracture affecting an unspecified bone within the foot that is not healing as expected. It indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for this fracture, which has been previously diagnosed and is now demonstrating delayed healing.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a stress fracture of the foot, without specifying a particular bone, and the patient is in a subsequent phase of care for this injury, with the healing process being prolonged or slower than anticipated. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits, cast changes, or ongoing physical therapy related to the delayed healing.

• Ensure documentation specifies "stress fracture" and "delayed healing" for a subsequent encounter.
• Do not use this code for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.
• If the specific foot bone is identified (e.g., metatarsal, navicular), a more specific code from the M84.37- subcategory should be used.