Cervical spondylosis is a degenerative disorder of the neck bones. This disorder is caused by abnormal wear of the neck bone cartilage. The bones present in the neck are called as cervical vertebrae and the cushions situated between these vertebrae are called cervical disks. The condition of cervical spondylosis is caused due to mineral deposits in the cushions located between vertebrae and degeneration of neck bones cartilage. The abnormal wear on the neck bones and cartilage can lead to gradual compression of one or more than one nerve roots. This compression of nerve roots result in changes in sensation, pain in neck and arm and sufferer may even experience weakness.

Cervical spondylosis results from chronic degeneration of the cervical spine including the cushions between the neck vertebrae (cervical disks) and joints between the bones of the cervical spine. There may be abnormal growths or "spurs" on the vertebrae (the bones of the spine).

These accumulated changes caused by degeneration can gradually compress one or more of the nerve roots. This can lead to increasing pain in the neck and arm, weakness, and changes in sensation. In advanced cases, the spinal cord becomes involved. This can affect not just the arms, but the legs as well.

Pain in the neck. This may spread to the base of the skull and shoulders. Movement of the neck may make the pain worse. The pain sometimes spreads down an arm to a hand or fingers. This is caused by irritation of a nerve which goes to the arm from the spinal cord in the neck. The pain tends to wax and wane with flare-ups from time to time. However, some people develop chronic (persistent) pain.