DJD ICD 10 code, more commonly known as osteoarthritis (OA), is the most widespread type of arthritis and one of the leading causes of chronic pain and disability worldwide. Because DJD is progressive and affects millions of people, accurate documentation in healthcare systems is essential for proper treatment, insurance reimbursement, and research.

The ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification) provides a global standard for diagnosing and coding medical conditions, including DJD. Understanding the correct ICD-10 codes ensures consistency across patient records, billing, and treatment planning.

In this blog, we’ll explore DJD, its ICD-10 codes, why accurate coding matters, and how healthcare professionals can avoid common mistakes.

What is Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)?

DJD, or osteoarthritis, is a chronic degenerative disorder of the joints. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down. Without this cushioning, bones rub against each other, leading to:

• Joint stiffness

• Pain that worsens with activity

• Swelling and tenderness

• Reduced mobility and flexibility

• Bony growths or spurs

Unlike inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), DJD is considered a wear-and-tear condition. Risk factors include aging, obesity, prior joint injuries, repetitive movements, and genetics.

Why ICD-10 Coding Matters for DJD

ICD-10 coding is more than a billing tool—it ensures clinical accuracy and global consistency. Proper DJD ICD-10 coding matters because it:

1. Supports treatment planning – Helps providers identify which joint is affected and plan appropriate therapies.

2. Ensures insurance reimbursement – Insurers require specific codes; vague or incorrect coding can delay or deny claims.

3. Improves medical research – Codes help track the prevalence of DJD and evaluate treatment outcomes.

4. Maintains legal compliance – Accurate documentation reduces liability risks.

ICD-10 Codes for DJD (Osteoarthritis)

DJD falls under the M15–M19 block of ICD-10-CM codes. These codes classify osteoarthritis based on joint location, laterality, and whether it is primary, post-traumatic, or secondary.

M15 – Polyosteoarthritis (Multiple Joints)

Used when DJD affects multiple joints.

• M15.0 – Primary generalized osteoarthritis

• M15.1 – Heberden’s nodes (bony swellings) with arthropathy

• M15.2 – Bouchard’s nodes with arthropathy

• M15.9 – Polyosteoarthritis, unspecified

M16 – DJD of the Hip

Covers hip osteoarthritis.

• M16.0 – Primary bilateral hip osteoarthritis

• M16.1 – Primary unilateral hip osteoarthritis

• M16.4 – Post-traumatic hip osteoarthritis

• M16.9 – Unspecified hip osteoarthritis

M17 – DJD of the Knee

Knee osteoarthritis is among the most common.

• M17.0 – Primary bilateral knee osteoarthritis

• M17.1 – Primary unilateral knee osteoarthritis

• M17.4 – Post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis

• M17.9 – Unspecified knee osteoarthritis

M18 – DJD of the First Carpometacarpal Joint (Thumb)

Affects the thumb’s base joint.

• M18.0 – Primary bilateral osteoarthritis of first carpometacarpal joint

• M18.1 – Primary unilateral osteoarthritis of first carpometacarpal joint

• M18.9 – Unspecified osteoarthritis of first carpometacarpal joint

M19 – Other and Unspecified DJD

Covers all other types not listed above.

• M19.0 – Primary osteoarthritis of other joints

• M19.1 – Post-traumatic osteoarthritis of other joints

• M19.2 – Secondary osteoarthritis of other joints

• M19.9 – Osteoarthritis, unspecified

Documentation Tips for Accurate DJD ICD-10 Coding

To ensure correct coding, providers must give detailed documentation. Key points include:

1. Joint affected – e.g., hip, knee, thumb, spine, or multiple joints.

2. Laterality – Specify right, left, or bilateral.

3. Type of DJD – Primary (age-related), secondary (from another disease), or post-traumatic (after injury).

4. Stage/severity – If noted, include whether mild, moderate, or severe.

5. Avoid “unspecified” – Use precise codes whenever possible.

Examples of DJD ICD-10 Coding

Case 1:

A 70-year-old woman with bilateral knee osteoarthritis.

• Correct Code: M17.0 (Primary bilateral osteoarthritis of knee).

Case 2:

A 55-year-old man develops hip arthritis after a sports injury.

• Correct Code: M16.4 (Post-traumatic osteoarthritis of hip).

Case 3:

A 62-year-old patient presents with generalized osteoarthritis in multiple joints.

• Correct Code: M15.0 (Primary generalized osteoarthritis).

Common Mistakes in DJD Coding

1. Using unspecified codes (M19.9) too often – This reduces accuracy and may affect reimbursement.

2. Not documenting laterality – ICD-10 requires right/left/bilateral for most joints.

3. Confusing DJD with rheumatoid arthritis – RA is classified under M05–M06, not M15–M19.

4. Overlooking post-traumatic or secondary causes – These must be specified to justify treatment.

DJD Management (Beyond Coding)

Though ICD-10 is for classification, understanding DJD management is essential:

• Lifestyle changes – Weight management, exercise, joint protection.

• Medications – NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, pain relievers.

• Therapies – Physical therapy, occupational therapy, braces.

• Surgical options – Arthroscopy, osteotomy, or joint replacement.

Accurate ICD-10 coding supports insurance approval for these treatments, ensuring patients receive the care they need.

DJD, or osteoarthritis, is a chronic degenerative disorder of the joints. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down. Without this cushioning, bones rub against each other, leading to:

Final Thoughts

DJD ICD 10 code is a major health concern that affects mobility and quality of life for millions of people. The ICD-10-CM coding system provides a standardized way to classify DJD by joint, laterality, and cause.

Accurate coding ensures proper diagnosis, effective treatment planning, smooth insurance processing, and valuable data for public health research. For healthcare professionals, mastering DJD ICD-10 codes isn’t just a requirement—it’s a responsibility that impacts patient care at every level.

Learn the complete guide to DJD ICD-10 codes. Understand classifications, documentation tips, and coding accuracy for osteoarthritis care.