CHRONIC NECK PAIN

The disorders most commonly seen in rheumatologic practice are acute t o chronic cervical disc-related strains, radiculopathies, and degenera tive spondylosis. Inflammatory disorders including ankylosing spondyli tis and rheumatoid arthritis, although generally rare, are not uncommo nly seen in a rheumatologic practice. The pertinent anatomic and patho logic features of cervical disorders are examined in the context of th eir implications for the hierarchy of specific therapeutic interventio ns. The basis for the usually favorable prognosis for these conditions , particularly in response to a rational, structured, and phased conse rvative regimen, is delineated.