1. Home
  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. R00–R99
  4. R25-R29
  5. Other symptoms and signs involving the nervous and musculoskeletal systems (R29)

Other symptoms and signs involving the nervous and musculoskeletal systems (R29)

The R29 ICD-10 codes cover various other symptoms and signs related to the nervous and musculoskeletal systems that do not fall into more specific categories. These codes are used to identify clinical findings such as abnormal reflexes, unusual postures, or transient neurological symptoms when a precise diagnosis is not established.

This section includes codes for conditions like R29.0 (Tetany), which refers to muscle spasms linked to low calcium or magnesium levels, known also by terms such as "Trousseau sign" and "Carpopedal spasm." The code R29.1 (Meningismus) captures signs like nuchal rigidity often seen in meningitis. R29.2 (Abnormal reflex) encompasses a wide range of abnormal neurological reflex responses, aiding coders in documenting varied reflex abnormalities. Postural irregularities are coded under R29.3 (Abnormal posture) with synonyms including "decerebrate posture" and "stooped trunk position." Codes like R29.6 (Repeated falls) specify episodes of recurrent falling, important for elderly patients or those with balance issues. For stroke severity, the NIH Stroke Scale scores ranging from 0 to 42 are detailed under R29.7 and its subcodes, supporting accurate recording of neurological deficits after cerebral infarction. Unspecified or other less defined nervous and musculoskeletal system signs are found under R29.8 and R29.9, addressing symptoms like "facial weakness" or nonspecific neurological signs. This range facilitates precise coding of diverse neurological and musculoskeletal observations not classified elsewhere, improving clinical documentation and communication.

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Asthenia

Clinical sign or symptom manifested as debility, or lack or loss of strength and energy.

Blinking

Brief closing of the eyelids by involuntary normal periodic closing, as a protective measure, or by voluntary action.

Cystinuria

An inherited disorder due to defective reabsorption of CYSTINE and other BASIC AMINO ACIDS by the PROXIMAL RENAL TUBULES. This form of aminoaciduria is characterized by the abnormally high urinary levels of cystine; LYSINE; ARGININE; and ORNITHINE. Mutations involve the amino acid transport protein gene SLC3A1.

Meningism

A condition characterized by neck stiffness, headache, and other symptoms suggestive of meningeal irritation, but without actual inflammation of the meninges (MENINGITIS). Spinal fluid pressure may be elevated but spinal fluid is normal. (DeJong, The Neurologic Examination, 4th ed, p673)

Meningitis

Inflammation of the coverings of the brain and/or spinal cord, which consist of the PIA MATER; ARACHNOID; and DURA MATER. Infections (viral, bacterial, and fungal) are the most common causes of this condition, but subarachnoid hemorrhage (HEMORRHAGES, SUBARACHNOID), chemical irritation (chemical MENINGITIS), granulomatous conditions, neoplastic conditions (CARCINOMATOUS MENINGITIS), and other inflammatory conditions may produce this syndrome. (From Joynt, Clinical Neurology, 1994, Ch24, p6)

Muscle Rigidity

Continuous involuntary sustained muscle contraction which is often a manifestation of BASAL GANGLIA DISEASES. When an affected muscle is passively stretched, the degree of resistance remains constant regardless of the rate at which the muscle is stretched. This feature helps to distinguish rigidity from MUSCLE SPASTICITY. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p73)

Neurocirculatory Asthenia

A clinical syndrome characterized by palpitation, SHORTNESS OF BREATH, labored breathing, subjective complaints of effort and discomfort, all following slight PHYSICAL EXERTION. Other symptoms may be DIZZINESS, tremulousness, SWEATING, and INSOMNIA. Neurocirculatory asthenia is most typically seen as a form of anxiety disorder.

Orthostatic Intolerance

Symptoms of cerebral hypoperfusion or autonomic overaction which develop while the subject is standing, but are relieved on recumbency. Types of this include NEUROCARDIOGENIC SYNCOPE; POSTURAL ORTHOSTATIC TACHYCARDIA SYNDROME; and neurogenic ORTHOSTATIC HYPOTENSION. (From Noseworthy, JH., Neurological Therapeutics Principles and Practice, 2007, p2575-2576)

Tetany

A disorder characterized by muscle twitches, cramps, and carpopedal spasm, and when severe, laryngospasm and seizures. This condition is associated with unstable depolarization of axonal membranes, primarily in the peripheral nervous system. Tetany usually results from HYPOCALCEMIA or reduced serum levels of MAGNESIUM that may be associated with HYPERVENTILATION; HYPOPARATHYROIDISM; RICKETS; UREMIA; or other conditions. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p1490)