Weakness ICD-10-CM Codes

What are ICD-10 codes for weakness-related concerns can I use?

1. R53.1 - Weakness

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have weakness. In the context of this ICD-10 code, weakness could mean weakness in anything, like weakness in the arms, legs, facial muscles, eyes, etc. This ICD-10 code is too broad, so it’s best used only when the specifics of weakness haven’t been determined. 

2. R54 - Age-related physical debility

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have a debility/debilitation related to their age. This can be used on a patient who has weakness (or asthenia) because older adults and elderly patients are likely to have less energy, less strength, and are frail compared to how they were before.

3. R29.810 - Facial weakness

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have facial weakness. In the context of this ICD-10 code, a portion of a person’s face will likely be drooping, and they can’t make facial expressions using whichever side is affected. The ability to close the eyes might be affected, too, which isn’t good because being unable to close one’s eyes can lead to the irritation of the conjunctiva and the cornea drying up.

4. R53.83 - Other fatigue

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have fatigue. Since the ICD-10 code’s name specified Other fatigue, this means that this is fatigue that’s caused by certain treatments, being overworked, and more. If the patient’s fatigue is caused by something that doesn’t have a specific ICD-10 code, this one should be used.

5. M62.81 - Muscle weakness (generalized)

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have muscle weakness. This ICD-10 code has generalized in its name, meaning it can be used for any muscle-related weakness. It can be muscle weakness in the face, the arms, legs, etc, whether they’re caused by straining the limb, they’re part of or if it is due to certain illnesses/conditions.

6. R26.89 - Other abnormalities of gait and mobility

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have certain abnormalities tied to their gait and mobility, which can contribute to weakness. Weakness, especially in the legs, can affect a person’s ability to maintain their balance, which may also affect their gait.

These are some of the weakness ICD codes you can use.

Which of these weakness-related ICD-10 codes are billable?

• R53.1 - Billable
• R54 - Billable
• R29.810 - Billable
• R53.83 - Billable
• M62.81 - Billable
• Z65.8 - Billable
• R26.89 - Billable

Clinical information about weakness:

In the medical context, weakness is commonly referred to as Asthenia, a condition characterized by physical weakness and a lack of energy to perform tasks. Asthenia is not considered a disease but a manifestation influenced by various factors and conditions. These factors can range from natural aging and neurological disorders to the side effects of specific medications, stress, overuse of certain body parts, and excessive workload.

The appropriate treatment for weakness depends on its underlying cause. Some individuals may find relief with sufficient rest or lifestyle adjustments. In contrast, others may benefit from prescribed medications and antibiotics (which could initially contribute to the weakness) or through physical therapy. When weakness is a result of underlying conditions, addressing those conditions becomes crucial to effectively managing asthenia.

Synonyms include:

• Asthenia
• Asthenia due to disease
• Attacks of weakness
• Focal motor weakness
• Weakness as a late effect of stroke