Postural kyphosis, site unspecified

This code signifies an abnormal, exaggerated anterior-posterior curvature of the thoracic spine, commonly known as "roundback" or "hunchback," that is primarily due to poor posture rather than structural vertebral anomalies. It represents a non-fixed spinal deformity that can often be corrected voluntarily or with physical therapy.

Use this code when documentation indicates a diagnosis of kyphosis attributed to postural factors, without specifying the exact spinal region affected. This is appropriate when the provider explicitly states "postural kyphosis" and does not identify a specific site (e.g., thoracic, lumbar).

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies a particular site of postural kyphosis; instead, use a more specific M40.0- subcategory.
• Do not use this code for structural kyphosis (e.g., Scheuermann's kyphosis, congenital kyphosis), which are coded elsewhere (e.g., M42.-, Q76.4).
• Ensure the documentation clearly differentiates postural kyphosis from other forms of kyphosis to support code assignment.