Abstract
Twenty-four patients referred to a neurological service with myelopathy due to cervical spondylosis were treated by collar immobilization. When examined between 4 months and 6 1/2 years later and assessment made of motor disability alone, 29% had improved, 38% were unchanged, and 33% had deteriorated. When relief of sensory symptoms is included, 42% had improved. Improvement began within 5 months or not at all. A long history before treatment was associated with a poor prognosis.