A retrospective study was made of 45 patients who had been treated conservatively for cervical spondylotic myelopathy. A number of aetiological variables were analysed in an attempt to find factors that may be useful in predicting the long term prognosis for this condition. It was found that those who deteriorated were more likely to be female and to have significantly more cervical mobility when compared to those patients whose disability had remained static. It is proposed that measurement of cervical mobility may help to select patients who are more likely to deteriorate and thus more likely to benefit from surgical intervention.