Chronic neck pain.

The disorders most commonly seen in rheumatologic practice are acute to chronic cervical disc-related strains, radiculopathies, and degenerative spondylosis. Inflammatory disorders including ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis, although generally rare, are not uncommonly seen in a rheumatologic practice. The pertinent anatomic and pathologic features of cervical disorders are examined in the context of their implications for the hierarchy of specific therapeutic interventions. The basis for the usually favorable prognosis for these conditions, particularly in response to a rational, structured, and phased conservative regimen, is delineated.