Stiffness of unspecified shoulder, not elsewhere classified

This code signifies a patient presenting with limited range of motion or a feeling of rigidity in an unspecified shoulder joint. It indicates a symptom of stiffness without a more specific underlying diagnosis of arthritis, injury, or other defined shoulder pathology. This is a residual category for shoulder stiffness not attributable to other specified conditions.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly states "shoulder stiffness" but lacks further specificity regarding the cause or the affected side (left or right). It can be used when initial evaluation does not identify a more precise diagnosis, or when the stiffness is a standalone symptom without an associated injury or inflammatory process.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies laterality (e.g., "stiffness of left shoulder").
• Do not use if a more specific diagnosis for the shoulder stiffness is identified (e.g., adhesive capsulitis, osteoarthritis).
• Consider if additional codes for pain (e.g., M25.51-) or other associated symptoms are also warranted.