ICD-10-CM Billable Code

S56.117

Strain of flexor muscle, fascia and tendon of right little finger at forearm level

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A strain of the flexor muscle, fascia, and tendon of the right little finger at the forearm level is an injury that occurs when these tissues are overstretched or torn due to excessive stretching or force. This type of injury often results from activities involving gripping, pulling, or sudden movements that place stress on the fingers and forearm. Recognizing the signs and understanding the nature of this injury can help in managing it effectively and preventing further damage.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Sudden forceful movements of the finger during sports or physical activities Repetitive gripping or finger flexion tasks, especially without proper warm-up Direct trauma or impact to the finger or forearm Accidental pulling or snagging of the finger during activities Overuse of the finger in activities such as playing musical instruments or manual labor

Key Symptoms: Pain localized in the forearm and the base of the little finger Swelling or tenderness along the flexor muscle, fascia, or tendon Difficulty in bending or flexing the affected finger Muscle weakness or a feeling of instability in the finger Possible bruising or discoloration around the injury site Increased discomfort during movements that involve gripping or finger flexion

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a detailed physical examination to assess tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. Healthcare providers may also perform special tests to evaluate the integrity of the flexor tendons. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the extent of tissue damage and rule out other injuries like fractures or ligament tears.

Treatment Protocols: Resting the affected hand and avoiding activities that cause pain Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and alleviate pain Using over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by a healthcare provider Compression with a bandage or splint to support the finger and prevent further injury Elevating the hand to decrease swelling Engaging in physical therapy or rehabilitative exercises once initial pain subsides to restore strength and flexibility In severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to repair torn tissues

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is S56.117 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S56.117 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report S56.117?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Strain of flexor muscle, fascia and tendon of right little finger at forearm level and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

Cite this Clinical Reference