ICD-10 Code G56.43 – Causalgia of bilateral upper limbs (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G56.43 – Causalgia of bilateral upper limbs
What it is
Causalgia of bilateral upper limbs refers to severe, persistent neuropathic pain affecting both arms or hands after nerve injury. The code identifies the bilateral upper-limb location, not the cause of the underlying nerve damage.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include burning pain, marked sensitivity to touch, and pain that seems out of proportion to the injury. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for swelling, color change, temperature change, or motor limitation.
When to use this code
Use G56.43 when the provider documents causalgia involving both upper limbs and the record supports a bilateral distribution. Code it when the diagnosis is specifically stated, even if the original nerve injury is described elsewhere in the chart.
Do not assume laterality from nonspecific arm pain or from a single affected limb. If documentation is unclear about bilaterality or the condition is described differently, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral causalgia, general neuropathic pain, or pain without documented nerve injury. It is also incorrect when the provider identifies a different upper-extremity neuropathy.
Coding tip
Verify that the note explicitly states bilateral upper-limb involvement before coding G56.43.