The term degenerative cervical myelopathy is a recently derived and accepted name in the current literature for cervical spondylotic myelopathy, cervical spondylosis, degenerative cervical disc disease and ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. All of these pathologies cause chronic compression of the cervical spinal cord with multiple physiopathological mechanisms leading to a picture of decreased dexterity, gait disturbance, genitourinary and sensory-motor disorders. Detailed anamnesis and physical examination, especially magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and electrophysiologic studies are used in the diagnosis. Together with radiologic data, the neurologic status is determined by different classifications and surgical or non-surgical treatment options are determined. While surgical treatment is recommended for moderate and severe patients, mild patients are candidates for close follow-up and conservative treatment. Early diagnosis is important to prevent permanent neural loss. In this article, current definitions of degenerative cervical myelopathy, physiopathological analysis, radiologic data, current classifications and clinical findings will be discussed.