M20.12 Hallux valgus (acquired), left foot

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Hallux valgus (acquired), left foot
- Commonly known as a bunion

#### Summary
Hallux valgus, also known as a bunion, is a foot deformity where the big toe leans towards the second toe, causing a bony bump on the side of the foot. This condition typically affects the alignment of bones in the foot, leading to discomfort and difficulty in walking.

#### Causes
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, particularly those with narrow toe boxes
- Prolonged use of high heels
- Genetic predisposition
- Arthritis
- Foot injuries

#### Risk Factors
- Being female, as women are more prone due to footwear choices
- Family history of bunions
- Flat feet or other foot deformities
- Certain occupations or activities that involve prolonged standing

#### Symptoms
- Visible bump on the side of the foot near the big toe
- Swelling, redness, or soreness around the joint
- Pain that may be persistent or intermittent, especially when wearing shoes
- Restricted motion of the big toe

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination to assess the alignment of the foot and toe
- Patient history to evaluate symptoms and footwear habits
- X-rays to visualize the extent of the deformity and check for arthritis

#### Treatment Options
- **Conservative**: Wearing wider shoes, using padded bunion shields or custom orthotics, taking anti-inflammatory medications
- **Non-surgical**: Physical therapy, icing the affected area
- **Surgical**: Bunionectomy, which involves removing the bony growth and realigning the toe

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Most patients find relief with non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes
- Surgery provides improvement when conservative management fails
- Regular check-ups help monitor bone alignment and prevent further complications

#### Complications
- If untreated, hallux valgus can lead to chronic pain or onset of arthritis
- Gait disturbances
- Persistent inflammation and pain

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Choose well-fitting footwear with adequate toe room
- Avoid high heels or excessively pointed shoes
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on feet
- Perform foot exercises to maintain joint flexibility

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent pain interfering with daily activities
- Noticeable changes in the appearance of the foot or toe alignment
- Inability to find properly fitting shoes without discomfort

#### Additional Resources
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS): [website](http://www.aofas.org)
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: [website](https://www.niams.nih.gov)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure laterality is correctly noted, as coding for the left foot (M20.12) is specific
- Distinguish between acquired and congenital hallux valgus
- Verify if additional conditions, like arthritis, are present which may require separate coding

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Hallux valgus (acquired), left foot

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