Name of the Condition

• Patellofemoral Disorders of the Right Knee (ICD-10-CM Code: M22.2X1)
• Includes conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome and chondromalacia patellae.

Summary

Patellofemoral disorders refer to a group of conditions affecting the joint between the kneecap (patella) and thigh bone (femur). Specifically, disorders of the right knee can lead to pain and functional impairment, affecting daily activities and sports performance.

Causes

• Overuse during sports or physical activities
• Trauma or injury to the knee
• Misalignment of the knee joint or changes in biomechanics
• Weakness or imbalance in the muscles surrounding the knee

Risk Factors

• Adolescence, particularly in active individuals
• Athletes, especially those involved in running, jumping, or activities requiring frequent knee bending
• Females are more prone due to anatomical differences
• Previous knee injuries

Symptoms

• Pain in the front of the knee, often aggravated by activities such as running, squatting, or climbing stairs
• Swelling or tenderness around the kneecap
• Grinding or clicking sensation when bending the knee
• Difficulty in straightening the knee fully

Diagnosis

• Physical examination, focusing on knee alignment, movement, and response to pressure
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to identify any structural abnormalities

Treatment Options

• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve alignment
• Pain management with NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Rest and activity modification to allow healing
• In severe cases, surgical options like arthroscopy to realign or repair the joint

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most patients respond well to conservative treatment, with significant improvement in symptoms.
• Regular follow-up to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary is crucial for long-term management.

Complications

• Chronic pain and discomfort if not adequately managed
• Increased risk of osteoarthritis in the knee joint
• Persistent functional limitations affecting quality of life

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a balanced exercise routine that includes strength and flexibility training
• Ensuring proper warm-up and cool-down during activities
• Wearing appropriate footwear that provides support and cushioning
• Avoiding repetitive stress activities that strain the knee

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or worsening pain despite rest and self-care
• Swelling or redness around the knee
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• Arthritis Foundation
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct laterality by coding "right knee" for any documentation specifying the affected side.
• Verify accuracy with clinical notes to avoid confusion with similar codes related to patellofemoral disorders of other areas or unspecified limbs.
• Note the use of modifiers or additional codes if multiple conditions or laterality on different limbs are mentioned.