ICD-10 Code G44.309 – Post-traumatic headache, unspecified, not intractable (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G44.309 – Post-traumatic headache, unspecified, not intractable
What it is
This code identifies a headache that develops after head trauma or injury when the type is not otherwise specified and the pain is not described as intractable. Use it when the record supports a post-traumatic cause but gives limited detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, you may see headache beginning after a concussion or other head injury, with persistent or recurrent pain that is not documented as resistant to treatment.
When to use this code
Use G44.309 when the provider documents a post-traumatic headache but does not specify a more detailed subtype. It also fits cases where the headache is clearly linked to prior trauma and the chart does not state it is intractable. Check documentation if the injury timing or headache type is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the headache is documented as intractable, because a different code applies. Also avoid it when the headache is unrelated to trauma or when another specific headache diagnosis is recorded.
Coding tip
Verify that the note links the headache to prior head injury and confirms the unspecified, non-intractable wording before assigning G44.309.