ICD-10 Code M02.81 – Other reactive arthropathies, shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M02.81 – Other reactive arthropathies, shoulder
What it is
M02.81 identifies reactive arthropathy affecting the shoulder joint. Use it when the shoulder inflammation is documented as reactive, meaning it follows another condition rather than being a primary joint disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include shoulder pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, with signs of inflammatory joint involvement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents reactive arthropathy in the shoulder and does not name a more specific reactive arthritis code. It is appropriate when the shoulder is the affected site in the record. Check documentation for the underlying trigger or associated condition if reported.
Do not use for
Do not use it for nonspecific shoulder pain, osteoarthritis, or septic arthritis. If the record does not clearly support reactive arthropathy, check documentation before coding.
Coding tip
Confirm both the reactive nature and the shoulder location in the provider note before assigning M02.81.