M21.3
Non-Billable

Wrist or foot drop (acquired)

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Wrist or foot drop (acquired)?

ICD-10-CM M21.3 is the diagnosis code for Wrist or foot drop (acquired). This code falls under the section "Other joint disorders" within Chapter 13 — Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (M00-M99). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.

Coding Guidelines for M21.3

Always refer to the official ICD-10-CM Tabular List for complete coding guidelines. Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code selected. When in doubt, consult a certified medical coder or the latest CMS guidelines.

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where M21.3 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Sub-Codes 2 entries
M21.33Wrist drop (acquired)Non-BillableM21.331Wrist drop, right wristBillableM21.332Wrist drop, left wristBillableM21.339Wrist drop, unspecified wristBillableM21.37Foot drop (acquired)Non-BillableM21.371Foot drop, right footBillableM21.372Foot drop, left footBillableM21.379Foot drop, unspecified footBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is M21.3 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, M21.3 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does M21.3 mean?

M21.3 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Wrist or foot drop (acquired)". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What is the parent code of M21.3?

The parent code of M21.3 is M21 ("Other acquired deformities of limbs"). M21.3 provides a more specific classification within this category.

What section is M21.3 in?

M21.3 is located in Section M20-M25 — "Other joint disorders" within Chapter 13 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of M21.3?

M21.3 has 2 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: M21.33, M21.37.

When should I use M21.3?

Use M21.3 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Wrist or foot drop (acquired)" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.

People Also Ask

What is the ICD-10 code for Wrist or foot drop (acquired)?

The ICD-10-CM code for Wrist or foot drop (acquired) is M21.3.

Can M21.3 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, M21.3 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is M21.3 in?

M21.3 is in Chapter 13 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is M21.3 valid for 2026?

Yes, M21.3 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousM21.279Flexion deformity, unspecified ankle and toesNext →M21.33Wrist drop (acquired)
Code Details
M21.3
Wrist or foot drop (acquired)
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
13 — Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (M00-M99)
M20-M25 — Other joint disorders
2026 ICD-10-CM