Spinal meninges

Organization and role

These coverings define different spaces. Cerebrospinal fluid occupies the subarachnoid space, whereas the epidural space lies outside the dura. Confusing these locations can lead to misunderstanding an injection or a lesion.

Clinical relevance and investigation

Infection, bleeding or a meningeal mass is not simply a mechanical disorder. MRI and, when medically appropriate, lumbar puncture may contribute to assessment.

Points to consider

The vertebral level and compartment should be specified. A normal fluid-filled space, a meningeal covering and a pathological collection are different concepts. Relationships to the cord and roots help explain possible symptoms.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, assessment aims to understand symptoms, history and functional limitations. Manual care and osteopathy, motorized spinal decompression, laser and shockwave have different indications. The term described in this entry is not enough to select any of these modalities. Their relevance, limitations and possible contraindications should be discussed in relation to diagnosis and individual goals.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Spinal arachnoid mater — Meningeal membrane between the dura and pia that forms the outer boundary of the subarachnoid space around the spinal cord.
• Spinal pia mater — Thin vascular membrane closely attached to the spinal cord surface, forming the innermost layer of its meningeal coverings.
• Subarachnoid space — Space between the arachnoid and pia containing cerebrospinal fluid around the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Medical references

1. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — The Central Nervous System.
2. Radiological Society of North America. RadLex Radiology Lexicon — terminology resource.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.