Name of the Condition

• Pain in left hand
• Medical term: M79.642

Summary

Pain in the left hand is a common condition characterized by discomfort or distress in the left hand. This can range from mild tingling or soreness to severe pain impacting daily functions.

Causes

• Repetitive strain or overuse
• Injuries such as fractures or sprains
• Arthritis or joint inflammation
• Nerve conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendinitis or muscular strain

Risk Factors

• Occupational or recreational activities involving repetitive hand movements
• Advanced age
• Pre-existing conditions like arthritis
• Poor ergonomic practices
• Previous hand injuries

Symptoms

• Dull or sharp pain
• Swelling or stiffness
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Weakness or reduced grip strength
• Difficulty performing tasks

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare professional
• Patient history assessment
• Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI
• Electromyography (EMG) for nerve-related pain

Treatment Options

• Rest and immobilization
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Steroid injections for inflammation relief
• Surgery in severe or unresponsive cases

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most cases improve with treatment and rest.
• Chronic pain may require ongoing management.
• Regular follow-up is essential to track progress and adjust treatment plans.

Complications

• Chronic pain leading to functional limitations
• Muscle atrophy or reduced hand strength
• Permanent nerve damage if untreated

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular hand stretches and exercises
• Ergonomic modifications at workstations
• Alternating hand usage in repetitive tasks
• Using braces or supports to prevent strain

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or worsening pain
• Swelling or redness in the hand
• Pain accompanied by fever or general malaise
• Sudden onset of intense pain or injury

Additional Resources

• American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH)
• Arthritis Foundation
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure to specify the location of the pain (left hand).
• Verify the condition with accompanying symptoms and diagnosis to avoid miscoding.
• Watch for similar codes (e.g., M79.641 for right hand pain) to prevent errors.