ICD-10 Code M06.229 – Rheumatoid bursitis, unspecified elbow (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M06.229 – Rheumatoid bursitis, unspecified elbow
What it is
This code identifies rheumatoid bursitis affecting the elbow when the bursitis is linked to rheumatoid arthritis and the elbow side is not specified. Use it for inflammatory bursal involvement, not simple overuse bursitis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include elbow swelling, tenderness, and reduced motion related to rheumatoid inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmation of rheumatoid disease and elbow involvement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents rheumatoid bursitis in the elbow and does not identify right or left side. It is appropriate when the provider links the bursitis to rheumatoid arthritis. Check documentation if the elbow site or rheumatoid association is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonrheumatoid elbow bursitis, traumatic bursitis, or bursitis at another joint. If the elbow laterality is documented, choose the more specific code.
Coding tip
Confirm both the rheumatoid cause and the unspecified elbow site before assigning M06.229.