Innervation of the spinal dura mater

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Abstract
Two formalin-fixed cadavers, one adult, and an 8-mo. fetus were dissected to demonstrate the origin and distribution of nervous filaments running through the intervertebral foramina. Four paravertebral blocks of fresh adult post-mortem material and 3 whole specimens of spinal dura with epidural tissue were dissected after staining with Schiff''s reagent. Results showed that the spinal dura has an intrinsic nerve supply from the meningeal rami by means of perivascular filaments running through an intervertebral foramen. Segmental overlap was seen in all regions, no definite nerve endings were found, and no nerves were traced to the dorsal aspect of the spinal dura mater. These findings account for the absence of pain on piercing the dorsal spinal dura as in a lumbar puncture, and the widespread back pain when protrusion of one intervertebral disc causes pressure on or traction of the dura.