ICD10BillableValid for clinical use
ICD-10 Code G44.209: Tension-type headache, unspecified, not intractable
Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 26 May 2026
What is this code?
ICD-10 codes are diagnosis classification codes used in healthcare records, reporting, coding workflows, and billing support. This code sits within the broader ICD-10 area for Diseases of the nervous system (G00-G99).
When is it used?
- May be used when a clinician documents tension-type headache, unspecified, not intractable in a patient's medical record.
- May appear in hospital records, claims, referrals, and clinical documentation.
- This code can be used as a clinically usable diagnosis entry in standardized coding workflows.
What it does not mean
- A code alone does not explain severity, treatment plan, or outcome.
- A medical code should not be treated as a substitute for a doctor's diagnosis or advice.
Code hierarchy
chapter
6Diseases of the nervous system (G00-G99)
block
G40-G47Episodic and paroxysmal disorders
category
G44Other headache syndromes
category
G44.2Tension-type headache
category
G44.20Tension-type headache, unspecified
currentG44.20
Official coding notes
Inclusion terms
- Tension headache NOS
Where you may see this code
You may see this code in hospital records, discharge summaries, insurance claims, encounter documentation, referrals, or other healthcare billing and coding records.
Related specialists
NeurologistGeneral Physician
Coverage-related procedures and services
CPT 20552high
INJECTION(S); SINGLE OR MULTIPLE TRIGGER POINT(S), 1 OR 2 MUSCLE(S)
Source: CMS coverage guidance
CPT 20553high
INJECTION(S); SINGLE OR MULTIPLE TRIGGER POINT(S), 3 OR MORE MUSCLES
Source: CMS coverage guidance
CPT 96137high
PSYCHOLOGICAL OR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TEST ADMINISTRATION AND SCORING BY PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL, TWO OR MORE TESTS, ANY METHOD; EACH ADDITIONAL 30 MINUTES (LIST SEPARATELY IN ADDITION TO CODE FOR PRIMARY PROCEDURE)
Source: CMS coverage guidance
CPT 96136high
PSYCHOLOGICAL OR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TEST ADMINISTRATION AND SCORING BY PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL, TWO OR MORE TESTS, ANY METHOD; FIRST 30 MINUTES
Source: CMS coverage guidance
CPT 96139high
PSYCHOLOGICAL OR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TEST ADMINISTRATION AND SCORING BY TECHNICIAN, TWO OR MORE TESTS, ANY METHOD; EACH ADDITIONAL 30 MINUTES (LIST SEPARATELY IN ADDITION TO CODE FOR PRIMARY PROCEDURE)
Source: CMS coverage guidance
CPT 96138high
PSYCHOLOGICAL OR NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TEST ADMINISTRATION AND SCORING BY TECHNICIAN, TWO OR MORE TESTS, ANY METHOD; FIRST 30 MINUTES
Source: CMS coverage guidance
Coding guidelines
Common synonyms
Tension-type headache, unspecified, not intractableTension-type headache, unspecified
Frequently asked questions
About this content
This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from ICD-10. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.