ICD-10 Code G81 – Hemiplegia and hemiparesis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G81 – Hemiplegia and hemiparesis
What it is
G81 identifies partial or complete paralysis, or weakness, affecting one side of the body. It covers hemiplegia and hemiparesis, which may involve the arm, leg, or both on the same side.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include unilateral motor weakness, reduced movement, abnormal tone, and impaired coordination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, severity, and whether the condition is flaccid or spastic.
When to use this code
Use G81 when the record clearly documents hemiplegia or hemiparesis as the diagnosis. It is appropriate for residual weakness after stroke or other neurologic injury when the provider states the condition is present. Code only what is documented and specify laterality when available.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generalized weakness, gait problems, or transient neurologic symptoms without a documented hemiplegia or hemiparesis diagnosis. Check documentation if the record describes another cause of weakness.
Coding tip
Look for provider documentation of side, dominance, and whether the deficit is dominant or nondominant when assigning the most specific G81 code.