M50.123
Cervical disc disorder at C6-C7 level with radiculopathy
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- C6-C7 disc disorder with radiculopathy
- C7 radiculopathy due to disc disorder
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Cervical disc disorder at the C6-C7 level with radiculopathy is a medical condition involving damage or degeneration of the disc located between the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae. This condition can cause neck pain and nerve-related symptoms due to irritation or compression of nearby nerves. The presence of radiculopathy indicates that nerve roots exiting the spinal cord are affected, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that can extend to the shoulders, arms, or hands.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Degenerative disc disease due to aging Recent neck injury or trauma Repetitive movements or poor ergonomics Herniated disc at C6-C7 Genetic factors affecting disc health Overuse or strain from physical activities
Key Symptoms: Neck pain that worsens with movement Radiating pain down the shoulder or arm Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand Muscle weakness in affected areas Reduced neck flexibility Sensory disturbances such as pins and needles
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a physical examination and medical history review. Imaging tests such as MRI are essential to visualize disc degeneration or herniation and assess nerve involvement. X-rays may also be used to rule out other spine issues. Electromyography (EMG) can help evaluate nerve function and confirm radiculopathy.
Treatment Protocols: Management typically includes non-surgical options, such as rest, physical therapy, and medications like pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are recommended to reduce inflammation. If symptoms persist or worsen, surgical options, such as a discectomy or spinal fusion, may be considered to relieve nerve compression and stabilize the spine.
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is M50.123 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M50.123 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report M50.123?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Cervical disc disorder at C6-C7 level with radiculopathy and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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