DJD ICD 10 Code Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), also known as osteoarthritis, is one of the most common chronic joint disorders worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage at the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Because DJD is so widespread, it is frequently documented in healthcare records.
For medical coders and healthcare providers, assigning the correct DJD ICD 10 code is crucial for accurate billing, research, and patient care. This guide explains how to classify DJD in ICD-10, the most common codes, and tips for proper documentation.
What is DJD?
DJD ICD 10 Code is a degenerative joint condition marked by cartilage breakdown. Without enough cartilage, bones rub together, causing:
Pain and joint tenderness
Reduced mobility
Swelling and stiffness
Grinding or cracking sounds (crepitus)
Bone spurs in severe cases
It often affects knees, hips, spine, and hands, but can occur in almost any joint.
DJD ICD-10 Coding Structure
In ICD-10-CM, DJD falls under M15–M19 (Osteoarthritis). Codes vary depending on:
Location – knee, hip, spine, shoulder, etc.
Laterality – right, left, bilateral, or unspecified.
Type – primary, secondary, or post-traumatic.
Common DJD ICD-10 Codes
DJD of the Knee
M17.0 – Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of knee
M17.11 – Primary OA, right knee
M17.12 – Primary OA, left knee
M17.9 – Osteoarthritis of knee, unspecified
DJD of the Hip
M16.0 – Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of hip
M16.11 – Primary OA, right hip
M16.12 – Primary OA, left hip
M16.9 – Osteoarthritis of hip, unspecified
DJD of the Spine
M47.812 – Cervical spondylosis without radiculopathy
M47.816 – Lumbar spondylosis without radiculopathy
M47.819 – Spondylosis, unspecified
DJD of the Shoulder
M19.011 – Primary OA, right shoulder
M19.012 – Primary OA, left shoulder
M19.019 – Primary OA, unspecified shoulder
Other/Unspecified Joints
M19.90 – Unspecified osteoarthritis, unspecified site
Primary vs. Secondary DJD
Primary DJD (Osteoarthritis): Develops naturally with aging, no specific cause.
Secondary DJD: Caused by trauma, congenital defects, obesity, or underlying conditions.
Example:
Primary osteoarthritis, right knee → M17.11
Post-traumatic osteoarthritis, left hip → M16.52
Documentation Tips
For precise coding, providers should document:
Joint involved
Laterality (right, left, or bilateral)
Type (primary, post-traumatic, or secondary)
Related conditions
Clear documentation prevents coders from using unspecified codes like M17.9 or M19.90.
Why Accurate DJD Coding Matters
Insurance & Billing – Correct codes reduce claim denials.
Patient Care – Guides treatment planning.
Research & Statistics – Provides accurate prevalence data.
Compliance – Essential for audits and legal standards.
Management of DJD (Clinical Context)
Although coding is the focus, knowing treatment helps understand its importance. Management includes:
Lifestyle changes: Weight management, exercise, joint care
Medications: NSAIDs, pain relievers, corticosteroid injections
Physical therapy: Improves strength and mobility
Assistive devices: Braces, canes, or orthotics
Surgery: Joint replacement for advanced DJD
Example Scenarios
Case 1:
A 68-year-old female presents with bilateral knee pain. Imaging confirms DJD.
Diagnosis: Bilateral primary osteoarthritis of knees.
Code: M17.0
Case 2:
A 55-year-old male with history of hip fracture develops chronic pain.
Diagnosis: Post-traumatic osteoarthritis, left hip.
Code: M16.52
Case 3:
A 70-year-old patient has chronic lumbar stiffness without nerve symptoms.
Diagnosis: Lumbar spondylosis without radiculopathy.
Code: M47.816
Conclusion
DJD ICD 10 Code Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting millions worldwide. In ICD-10, DJD is classified under M15–M19 codes for osteoarthritis. Correctly identifying the joint, laterality, and type ensures accurate coding, better patient care, and smooth insurance claims.
By using the right DJD ICD 10 code, healthcare providers and coders can maintain compliance, support medical research, and improve healthcare outcomes.
