R45.6: Physical violence

Physical violence, coded as R45.6 in the ICD-10, represents a medical condition provoked by intentional actions that cause bodily harm or damage. Physical violence is not a disease, but exposure to it can cause both immediate and long-term physical and mental health issues, all depending on the severity and frequency of the violence. The condition may present as various types of injuries like cuts, bruises, fractures or internal damage, or as psychological symptoms like fear, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Besides physical and mental health conditions, physical violence can also lead to social and occupational issues for an individual. Notably, physical violence affects both the victim and the perpetrator, repercussions of which may manifest as immediate physical harm, long term disability, or psychological distress.