What M67 covers · when clinicians use it
ICD-10 code M67 identifies Other disorders of synovium and tendon in the U.S. ICD-10-CM clinical and billing record set. It sits within the Musculoskeletal System chapter (M00–M99), the section that groups related diagnoses so providers, payers, and public-health agencies report them consistently. Clinicians and medical coders apply M67 when an encounter's findings match the Other disorders of synovium and tendon description, attaching it to the patient record so downstream insurance claims, payer audits, quality reporting, and epidemiological surveillance all reference the same standardized diagnosis. The ICD-10-CM is maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics, with an updated official code set released each U.S. fiscal year — always verify M67 against the current CMS/CDC release and your payer's documentation guidance before final use. This page summarizes documentation context for M67 and is a coding reference, not clinical, diagnostic, or billing advice.
M67 refers to Other disorders of synovium and tendon, covering inflammatory, degenerative, or spontaneous disorders affecting the synovial membrane lining joints and the tendons facilitating joint movement. These conditions can significantly impair function and cause chronic pain if untreated.
Symptoms
- Joint swelling and tenderness – Typical of synovitis (M65)
- Crepitus or clicking – Suggestive of tendon sheath inflammation
- Sudden loss of tendon function – Seen in spontaneous ruptures (M66)
- Restricted joint movement – Due to inflammation or mechanical disruption
- Localized pain during movement – Common across all tendon/synovial disorders (M67)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Other disorders of synovium and tendon involves physical examination (noting swelling, crepitus, or motion limitations), ultrasound or MRI imaging to detect synovial thickening or tendon tears, and occasionally aspiration or biopsy of synovial fluid to rule out infections or systemic causes.
ICD10 Code Usage
ICD10 code M67 is used by orthopedic surgeons, rheumatologists, sports medicine doctors, and physical therapists for documenting tendon and synovial pathologies, guiding interventions such as steroid injections, tendon repairs, or rehabilitative therapies.
Related Codes
FAQs
Q1: What is ICD10 code M67?
A: It refers to Other disorders of synovium and tendon, describing conditions involving the inflammation, rupture, or dysfunction of synovial membranes and tendons.
Q2: What causes synovitis and tenosynovitis (M65)?
A: Causes include overuse, trauma, inflammatory arthritis, infections, and repetitive strain injuries.
Q3: What is spontaneous tendon rupture (M66)?
A: A sudden, non-traumatic tear of a tendon, often due to degenerative changes, systemic diseases, or prolonged corticosteroid use.
Q4: How are tendon/synovial disorders managed?
A: Treatments include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and surgical repair if needed.
Q5: Who treats these conditions?
A: Orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine specialists, rheumatologists, and physiotherapists typically manage these conditions.
Conclusion
ICD10 code M67 provides a precise framework for diagnosing and treating Other disorders of synovium and tendon, ensuring timely interventions that restore joint mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further functional impairment.