ICD-10 Code G56.03 – Carpal tunnel syndrome, bilateral upper limbs (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G56.03 – Carpal tunnel syndrome, bilateral upper limbs
What it is
G56.03 identifies carpal tunnel syndrome affecting both upper limbs. It means the median nerve is compressed at the wrist on both sides, causing a bilateral entrapment neuropathy.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the median nerve distribution, often worse at night. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use G56.03 when the record clearly documents carpal tunnel syndrome in both wrists or both upper limbs. Apply it when the clinician specifies bilateral involvement, even if one side is more symptomatic. Check documentation if laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral carpal tunnel syndrome or for symptoms alone without a documented diagnosis. Do not assign it if the note only says wrist pain, hand numbness, or median nerve symptoms.
Coding tip
Confirm bilateral laterality in the assessment or impression before assigning G56.03.