Radiculopathy, lumbosacral region

This code signifies nerve root compression or irritation affecting the lower back and sacrum, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating into the buttocks, leg, or foot. It indicates a neurological deficit stemming from spinal nerve root involvement in the lumbosacral region.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states radiculopathy localized to the lumbosacral spine. This is commonly seen in cases of disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or spondylolisthesis impacting nerve roots L1-S5. Supporting documentation should include a physical exam noting neurological deficits consistent with nerve root compression in the lower extremities.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "lumbosacral" or a specific nerve root within that region (e.g., L5 radiculopathy).
• Do not use this code if the radiculopathy is cervical or thoracic; use the appropriate M54.1- subcategory.
• Code any underlying cause (e.g., M51.16 for lumbar disc disorder with radiculopathy) as a primary diagnosis when applicable, with this code as a secondary diagnosis to specify the neurological manifestation.