G90.523 Complex regional pain syndrome I of lower limb, bilateral

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- **Complex Regional Pain Syndrome I of Lower Limb, Bilateral (CRPS I, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)**

#### Summary
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome I (CRPS I) is a chronic pain condition that affects limbs after an injury or surgery. It involves prolonged pain and changes in skin color, temperature, and/or swelling. When it affects both lower limbs, it is considered bilateral.

#### Causes
- CRPS I typically develops following physical trauma, such as fractures, sprains, or surgery. The exact cause is not fully understood but is believed to involve abnormal responses of the nervous system.

#### Risk Factors
- The condition is more common in women and may be linked to genetic predispositions. While it can occur at any age, it is most prevalent in individuals between 40 to 60 years old. Trauma and surgical procedures are significant risk factors.

#### Symptoms
- Symptoms may include severe pain that is disproportional to the initial injury, swelling, changes in skin texture, temperature fluctuations, and limited mobility of the affected limbs.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and ruling out other conditions. Tests can include X-rays, MRI, or bone scans to observe changes in the bones or soft tissues.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatments focus on pain management and restoring functionality. Options include pain relievers, physical therapy, sympathetic nerve blocks, and psychological support. Medications like corticosteroids and nerve pain medications can also help alleviate symptoms.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With early treatment, many patients see improvement; however, some individuals may experience long-term symptoms. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications.

#### Complications
- If left untreated, CRPS I can lead to muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and significant mobility issues. Emotional and psychological effects, such as depression or anxiety, may also occur.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining physical activity within comfort limits and gradually increasing exercise can help maintain limb function. Stress-reduction techniques and avoiding re-injury are also beneficial.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience intense pain, swelling, or changes in skin color or temperature in the limbs post-injury or surgery.

#### Additional Resources
- Consider visiting websites such as the [National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)](https://www.ninds.nih.gov) or [RSDSA: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association](https://rsds.org) for more information.

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure correct coding by noting the specific limbs affected as bilateral. Common errors involve misclassification as a different type of chronic pain syndrome, so focus on details provided in the patient’s medical records for accuracy.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Complex regional pain syndrome I of lower limb, bilateral

Related policies from health plans

Similar Codes