Pain in unspecified forearm

This code signifies a patient's subjective complaint of pain localized to the forearm, without further specification of laterality (left or right) or a more precise anatomical location within the forearm. It indicates a symptom rather than a definitive diagnosis of an underlying condition.

This code is appropriate when the medical record clearly documents forearm pain but lacks details regarding which forearm is affected or the specific cause. It is often used for initial encounters or when diagnostic workup is incomplete. Documentation should explicitly state "forearm pain" without further specificity.

• Avoid using this code if laterality (left or right forearm) is documented; instead, choose a more specific code like M79.631 or M79.632.
• Do not use this code if a definitive diagnosis for the forearm pain (e.g., fracture, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome) has been established; code the underlying condition.
• This code is often a primary diagnosis for symptom management or diagnostic workup, but may also be a secondary diagnosis if the primary condition is elsewhere and the forearm pain is a related symptom.