Foreword

In a previous issue, the authors discussed the pain generators in the lumbar spine that result in low back pain. Being part of the spinal column, the cervical spine has the same pain generators: paraspinal muscles, ligaments, nerve root, outer third of the intervertebral disk, periosteum, and facet joint; these are all discussed in this issue. However, the cervical spine does have several differences from the lumbar spine, which has clinical implications. The spinal cord is within the cervical spine, unlike the lumbar spine, where the cord ends at L1 in adults. The facet joints are oriented differently, allowing for more rotational motions. The atlas and axis articulate with the occiput, allowing for flexion/extension. These anatomical structures have greater clinical significance in the cervical spine given these motion capabilities.

Neck pain is a common complaint in the medical office and the emergency room. We hope this issue of Disease-a-Month gives the practitioner practical tools to help assess and manage the most common diagnoses affecting the cervical spine. This issue serves as a valuable reference for years to come.