Evaluation of neck pain, radiculopathy, and myelopathy: imaging, conservative treatment, and surgical indications
Boyce, R.H.; Wang, J.C.
Instructional Course Lectures 52: 489-495
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0065-6895 PMID: 12690875 Document Number: 553674
Neck pain is a common complaint that typically represents a spectrum of disorders affecting the cervical spine. The clinical history and examination of patients with neck pain dictate the proper timing and selection of diagnostic studies such as plain radiography, MRI, and myelography with CT. Most neck pain is self-limiting and will resolve with appropriate conservative care. Nonsurgical treatment is the most appropriate first step in almost all cases of cervical radiculopathy. In contrast, the conservative care of cervical spondylotic myelopathy with measures such as physical therapy, spinal manipulation, medications, collars, and traction is limited.