M47814 - Wear and tear of the spine in the middle back area without nerve damage
International Classification of Diseases
What is a ICD-10 Code?
ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.
Detailed Description
This code describes spondylosis, which is the natural wear and tear that happens to your spine as you age, specifically in the thoracic region (the middle part of your back where your ribs attach). The condition involves changes to the vertebrae (spine bones), discs, and joints, but in this case, it's not causing damage to the spinal cord (myelopathy) or nerve roots (radiculopathy). Think of it like arthritis of the spine - it's a common condition that can cause stiffness and sometimes pain, but the nerves are not being compressed or damaged. Many people have this condition and may not even know it, as it can be found on imaging studies without causing symptoms.
Additional Information
This is a degenerative condition that's part of normal aging. Many people have spondylosis without symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms when they occur rather than 'curing' the condition. The absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy means the condition is not affecting nerve function, which is generally a good sign.
Category
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders
Medical Specialty
Orthopedics, Rheumatology, or Primary Care
Expected Costs
Your actual cost will depend on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.
What's Required Before This
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Imaging studies (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan)
What to Expect After
- Regular monitoring if symptomatic
- Physical therapy if needed
- Pain management as appropriate
- Activity modification recommendations
Why Understanding This Code Matters
On Your Medical Bill
This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.
For Your Health
Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.
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