S33.5XXA – Sprain of ligaments of lumbar spine, initial encounter

Learn all about the ICD-10-CM code S33.5XXA, which is for diagnosing the sprain of the ligaments of the lumbar spine during the initial encounter. This little guide will include what its clinical description is, if it’s billable or not, what its synonyms are, what other ICD codes are related to it, and a few FAQs.

By Chloe Smith on Jun 16, 2024.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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S33.5XXA Diagnosis Code: Sprain of ligaments of lumbar spine, initial encounter Is the S33.5XXA billable?S33.5XXA Clinical Information S33.5XXA synonyms include Other ICD-10 codes commonly used for lumbar spine problems FAQS

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S33.5XXA Diagnosis Code: Sprain of ligaments of lumbar spine, initial encounter

The S33.5XXA is an ICD code that’s included in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM, for short), and it is used to designate “Sprain of ligaments of lumbar spine, initial encounter.”

This ICD-10 code refers to the sprain of lumbar ligaments. This is one of the most common reasons for lower back pain. If lumbar ligaments are strained, that means that these ligaments are torn from the joints that they are attached to. What normally causes lumbar sprains is the overuse and overexertion of the lower back. Sometimes, accidents like falling can cause them.

If you’re wondering what’s up with the “initial encounter” in the ICD code name, it means it’s the first time a patient will be assessed and treated by a certain provider. Even if they have been diagnosed and treated for the same thing before by another provider, “initial encounter” will still be used.

This code is also used if the patient is undergoing active treatment for the sprain.

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Is the S33.5XXA billable?

Yes, this ICD-10-CM code is billable and can indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement.

S33.5XXA Clinical Information

To reiterate, a lumbar ligament sprain means that the ligament(s) are torn from the joints they’re attached to. If a patient has lumbar ligament sprain, they are likely to have the following symptoms:

Their lower back area feels stiff
The lower back has a restricted range of motion
Lower back pain that goes on for days
Lower back pain that reaches their buttocks
Difficulty maintaining posture

The sprain of lumbar spine ligaments is usually caused by overuse, which means that a person is bound to experience the sprain of lumbar spine ligaments due to wear and tear. It is also caused by falling or by overtwisting of the lumbar spine. Strenuous activities like weightlifting or carrying something heavy can also cause this sprain.

Typically, sprains require rest. Patients with lumbar spine ligament sprain should also rest (about 3 to 5 days should be enough), but at a certain point, they need to start being active because being stationary won’t do them any good. Given this, exercise and physical therapy are often part of treatment plans for this. Anti-inflammatory medication is also used to treat it.