Cervical degenerative disc disease (DDD) is not a specific diagnosis but a pathophysiologic process that incorporates a spectrum of disease states. Manifestations of cervical DDD can range from neck pain and headache to cervical radiculopathy and/or myelopathy. Fortunately, most of these pathologies can be managed nonoperatively; they may require surgical intervention if the symptoms and signs are found to be persistent or progressive. The clinician’s job is to determine the most specific diagnosis that explains the symptoms so that the optimal treatment can be applied.
