Name of the Condition

• Muscle spasm of back (ICD-10 Code: M62.830)
• Also known as back spasms.

Summary

Muscle spasm of the back involves involuntary contractions or tightness of the muscles in the back. These spasms can cause significant discomfort and may restrict movement.

Causes

• Muscle fatigue or overuse
• Poor posture
• Dehydration
• Stress or anxiety
• Underlying medical conditions such as herniated disks or spinal stenosis

Risk Factors

• Sedentary lifestyle
• Poor physical conditioning
• Heavy lifting or intense physical activity
• Aging
• Pre-existing spine conditions

Symptoms

• Sharp or intense back pain
• Stiffness and difficulty moving
• Muscle tightness and tenderness
• Possible tingling or numbness if nerves are affected

Diagnosis

• Physical examination focused on the spine and muscle condition
• Patient's medical history
• Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI, if necessary, to rule out other conditions

Treatment Options

• Medications: Pain relievers (e.g., NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants to reduce pain and muscle tension.
• Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches to strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility.
• Heat or cold therapy: To soothe muscle tension and reduce swelling.
• Massage therapy: To relieve tension in muscles.
• Chiropractic care: Adjustments to improve spine alignment.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most muscle spasms improve with treatment and self-care.
• Chronic spasms may require ongoing therapy and lifestyle changes.
• Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and prevent recurrence.

Complications

• Chronic back pain
• Development of more severe spine issues
• Limitations on physical activities

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Engage in regular physical exercise to strengthen back muscles.
• Practice proper posture to prevent undue stress on the back.
• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.
• Avoid lifting heavy loads improperly.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or severe pain that does not improve with rest
• Weakness or numbness in the legs
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

Additional Resources

• American Chiropractic Association (www.acatoday.org)
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (www.ninds.nih.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the specific location and nature of the spasm.
• Verify that M62.830 is directly-linked to "muscle spasm of back" to avoid generalized coding errors.
• Double-check for underlying causes or related spinal conditions that might need additional codes.