Reduced neck movement after operations for cervical spondylotic myelopathy

Complaints resulting from reduced neck movements were investigated in 50 patients who had operations for cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Seventy per cent had difficulty in performing 11 basic movements of daily living. Lateral bending or rotation were more difficult than flexion and extension. To look backwards was the most difficult movement. Complaints were highest among those in whom more than three levels of fusion had been carried out.