Injury of nerve root of lumbar spine, initial encounter

This code signifies damage or trauma to the nerve roots originating from the lumbar (lower back) region of the spine. This injury can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower extremities, depending on the specific nerve root affected. It indicates the initial presentation or active treatment phase of the injury.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a newly diagnosed injury to a lumbar nerve root, such as from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or direct trauma. It is appropriate for the first encounter where the injury is evaluated and a treatment plan is initiated. Subsequent encounters for the same injury would use the appropriate subsequent or sequela encounter codes.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "lumbar spine" for the nerve root injury.
• Verify this is the patient's initial encounter for this specific injury, not a follow-up.
• Look for associated symptoms like radiculopathy or neurological deficits to support the diagnosis.