Contracture, left foot

This code signifies a fixed resistance to passive stretch of the soft tissues around the left foot, resulting in a limitation of joint motion. It indicates a chronic shortening of muscles, tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules, preventing full range of motion in the left foot.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a contracture affecting the left foot. This typically arises from conditions like prolonged immobilization, neurological disorders, burns, or inflammatory processes. Ensure the medical record specifies the laterality as "left foot."

• Always confirm laterality (left, right, bilateral) from the physician's documentation.
• Do not confuse with muscle spasm or stiffness without a fixed limitation of motion.
• Code any underlying cause of the contracture (e.g., cerebral palsy, stroke sequelae) as a primary diagnosis if applicable, with the contracture as a secondary diagnosis.