M24.231 Disorder of ligament, right wrist

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Disorder of Ligament, Right Wrist (ICD-10: M24.231)

#### Summary
A disorder of the ligaments in the right wrist involves damage or dysfunction affecting the connective tissues that stabilize the wrist's bones and joints. This condition may result in pain, reduced mobility, and swelling.

#### Causes
- Acute trauma or injury to the wrist, such as a fall or impact.
- Chronic overuse or repetitive strain from activities like typing or sports.
- Underlying medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, that weaken connective tissues.

#### Risk Factors
- Participation in sports or physical activities that involve the wrist.
- Occupational activities requiring repetitive wrist movements.
- Age-related degeneration of ligaments.
- Previous injuries to the wrist.

#### Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness in the wrist area.
- Swelling and inflammation.
- Difficulty or pain when moving the wrist.
- A feeling of instability or weakness in the wrist.

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination and assessment of wrist movement and stability.
- Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to visualize ligament damage.
- Patient history and symptom evaluation.

#### Treatment Options
- Rest and activity modification to prevent further injury.
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve flexibility.
- Medications such as NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation.
- In severe cases, surgical intervention to repair torn ligaments.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With appropriate treatment, patients can often recover full function.
- Regular follow-up is critical, especially after surgery, to ensure proper healing and rehabilitation.
- Adhering to prescribed physical therapy is essential for optimal recovery.

#### Complications
- Chronic pain or persistent swelling.
- Decreased range of motion or wrist function.
- Development of arthritis in the wrist joint.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Engage in wrist-strengthening exercises to improve resilience.
- Modify activities to avoid repetitive strain.
- Use protective gear when participating in activities with a high risk of wrist injury.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Persistent or worsening wrist pain that does not improve with home care.
- Significant swelling or bruising.
- Inability to move the wrist or a sensation of instability.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Society for Surgery of the Hand](https://www.assh.org)
- [Arthritis Foundation](https://www.arthritis.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accuracy by verifying laterality (right wrist).
- Cross-reference with any related injuries or conditions for comprehensive coding.
- Avoid omitting secondary codes that detail the cause or nature of the ligament disorder.

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