Spinal dura mater

The spinal dura mater is the tough outer meningeal covering around the spinal cord and nerve roots. It forms a protective sac within the spinal canal and is separated from the canal wall by the epidural space.

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Structure and function

The meninges comprise dura, arachnoid and pia. Cerebrospinal fluid circulates in the subarachnoid space beneath the outer coverings; it does not normally fill the epidural space. The dural sac extends below the end of the spinal cord and surrounds the descending roots that form the cauda equina.

Possible manifestations

A dural tear may occur during selected procedures or surgery and can allow cerebrospinal fluid to leak. A headache that worsens upright and improves lying down may suggest this complication, but the pattern alone is not a diagnosis. Most ordinary back pain or headaches cannot be attributed to the dura from symptoms alone.

Assessment and management

Assessment considers a recent procedure, headache characteristics, fever and neurological findings. The medical team determines investigations and treatment. A persistent or substantial headache following lumbar puncture should be reported. Recovery instructions depend on the procedure and any complications, so general advice cannot replace the information supplied by the treating team.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, suspected fluid leakage or a complication after a spinal procedure requires medical referral. Manual treatment cannot replace this assessment and should not promise to seal a dural tear. Resuming physical care should follow the responsible team’s recommendations and any ongoing restrictions.

Warning signs

An unusual severe headache, fever following an intervention or neurological deterioration requires urgent assessment. New weakness, bladder or bowel dysfunction or confusion requires emergency evaluation. Do not wait for a routine musculoskeletal appointment to investigate these symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Is the dura the spinal cord?

No. It is a covering around neural structures.

Where is cerebrospinal fluid located?

Mainly in the subarachnoid space around nervous tissue.

Does the sac end with the cord?

No. It extends farther down the canal.

Does a headache prove a leak?

No. Several causes need to be distinguished.

Can all activity resume immediately after puncture?

Follow the supplied instructions and report persistent symptoms.

Educational information from The Spine Page. This entry does not replace an individual assessment. Documentary version: October 12, 2026. Sylvain Desforges, B.Sc., D.O., N.D., osteopath and naturopath.