Myalgia of auxiliary muscles, head and neck

This diagnosis code signifies muscle pain specifically affecting the accessory muscles of the head and neck. This includes muscles like the sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, and other muscles that assist in head movement and respiration, but are not the primary movers. The pain is typically localized to these muscle groups, often presenting as stiffness, tenderness, or aching.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates myalgia (muscle pain) localized to the auxiliary muscles of the head and neck. This may be seen in conditions like tension headaches, whiplash injuries, or chronic neck pain where muscle involvement is specified. Supporting documentation should explicitly mention "myalgia," "muscle pain," or "tenderness" in the context of these specific muscle groups.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "auxiliary" or "accessory" muscles of the head and neck, or lists specific muscles like sternocleidomastoid or trapezius.
• Do not use this code for generalized neck pain without specific muscle involvement documented.
• Consider sequencing this code after a more specific diagnosis if the myalgia is a symptom of an underlying condition (e.g., cervical sprain).