Sciatica

This code represents sciatica, a symptom characterized by pain radiating along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically from the lower back down one or both legs. It is often caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve roots in the lumbar spine.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of sciatica. This diagnosis is commonly supported by patient complaints of radiating leg pain, numbness, or weakness, often exacerbated by certain movements or positions.

• Do not use this code if a more specific underlying cause of the sciatica (e.g., herniated disc, spinal stenosis) is documented; code the underlying condition instead.
• This code describes a symptom, not a definitive diagnosis of the underlying etiology.
• Consider laterality if specified in the documentation, though this particular ICD-9 code does not differentiate.