ICD-10 Code G57.1 – Meralgia paresthetica (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G57.1 – Meralgia paresthetica
What it is
Meralgia paresthetica is a compression neuropathy of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. It causes sensory symptoms over the outer thigh without motor weakness.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include burning, tingling, numbness, or pain on the anterolateral thigh. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use G57.1 when the record documents meralgia paresthetica or lateral femoral cutaneous nerve entrapment. Apply it when the provider identifies this specific neuropathy as the cause of thigh sensory symptoms. Check documentation if the note only says thigh pain or numbness.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generalized leg pain, hip pain, or radiculopathy without documented meralgia paresthetica. If the diagnosis is uncertain or another nerve disorder is named, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Look for the exact diagnosis wording and the anatomic nerve site; vague thigh symptoms alone are not enough.