Rib pain is a common complaint in clinical practice, often caused by muscle strain, trauma, inflammation, or even internal issues. Correctly identifying and using the appropriate codes for rib pain is essential not only for accurate diagnosis and treatment but also for proper medical billing and claim approvals.
At ZanexMed, we understand the complexity of medical coding. That’s why we’ve created this straightforward guide to help healthcare providers code rib pain with clarity and confidence.
Common ICD-10-CM Codes for Rib Pain
R07.82 – Intercostal Pain
This is the primary code for rib pain that stems from the intercostal muscles or nerves between the ribs. It’s often used when the pain is musculoskeletal. This icd 10 intercostal pain code is also the appropriate intercostal muscle strain icd 10 code when dealing with soft tissue injuries between the ribs.
When to use:
- Pain between the ribs
- Costochondritis
- Non-traumatic chest wall pain
R07.89 – Other Chest Pain
Use this code when the rib pain doesn’t fit typical patterns or is not clearly defined. This rib pain icd 10 code applies to atypical presentations.
When to use:
- Generalized chest discomfort
- Atypical rib or upper chest pain
R07.9 – Chest Pain, Unspecified
If the documentation lacks specificity or the origin of pain is unclear, this code may be used. While this rib pain icd 10 cm code is acceptable, specificity is preferred.
Note: While this is acceptable, try to avoid it when more specific coding is possible — especially for insurance purposes.
Trauma-Related Codes (For Rib Injuries)
If rib pain results from injury or trauma, the coding becomes more specific. These trauma-related ribs pain icd 10 codes include:
S22.3XXA – Fracture of One Rib, Initial Encounter S22.4XXA – Fracture of Multiple Ribs, Initial Encounter
These codes should include:
- The number of ribs involved
- The phase of care: initial (A), subsequent (D), or sequela (S)
For example: S22.4XXA – Multiple rib fractures after a car accident (first visit)
For cases involving icd 10 rib pain from fall or icd-10 rib pain from fall, use the appropriate S22 series code along with the external cause code. When dealing with contusion rib icd 10, use S20.2XXA for bruising without fracture. For left rib injury icd 10, specify laterality when documented.
For rib strain icd 10 or rib sprain icd 10 cases, use S29.011A (Strain of muscle and tendon of front wall of thorax). This sprain of ribs icd 10 code is appropriate for soft tissue injuries. General rib cage injury icd 10 cases may use S29.9XXA when specifics aren’t available.
Muscular or Soft Tissue Pain
M79.1 – Myalgia
If rib pain is muscular (such as from strain, overuse, or postural issues), this code is ideal. This serves as the icd 10 code for muscle strain chest and icd 10 code for chest wall muscle strain when affecting the thoracic region.
For slipping rib syndrome icd 10, consider M99.03 (Segmental and somatic dysfunction of rib cage) when ribs are hypermobile. The costochondritis icd 10 or costochondritis icd code is M94.0 for cartilage inflammation. For nerve-related pain, the icd 10 code for intercostal neuralgia is M79.2.
When documentation requires the icd 10 code for rib pain left side or icd-10 code for rib pain left side, add laterality specifications to the appropriate code.
General Pain Codes
G89.1 – Acute Pain, Not Elsewhere Classified
Useful for acute pain conditions when the origin is known but doesn’t fit other coding options. This rib pain dx code works well for acute presentations.
For precordial catch syndrome icd 10 or icd 10 code for precordial pain, use R07.2 (Precordial pain). The r07.81 diagnosis code refers to pleurodynia for chest wall pain related to pleural inflammation.
For historical reference, the rib pain icd9 equivalent was 786.50, though all current documentation should use rib pain icd, icd10 rib pain, rib pain icd10, or icd 10 r rib pain formats. The appropriate code rib selection depends on clinical presentation.
ZanexMed Tip: Why Accurate Coding Matters
At ZanexMed, we’ve helped countless providers improve their medical billing workflows and reduce claim denials simply through better documentation and coding accuracy, whether it’s complex procedures or something as specific as identifying the correct codes for rib pain.
Rib pain might seem like a small complaint, but misdiagnosing it can lead to:
- Rejected claims
- Delayed reimbursements
- Compliance issues
Our team ensures that your claims are clean, complete, and compliant — the first time.
Correct ICD-10-CM coding starts with clear documentation. Make sure you:
- Identify whether pain is due to injury, muscle, or unknown causes
- Document location, severity, and duration
- Use specific codes wherever possible
Want help with your coding, billing, or revenue cycle management? ZanexMed is here to support you every step of the way.