Which statement best describes the innervation-related pain risk of the PLL?

Which statement best describes the innervation-related pain risk of the PLL?

• A. It has minimal nerve supply
• B. It has significant nociceptive innervation
• C. It is protected by bone
• D. It has a rich blood supply only

Answer: (B)

Pain signals from spinal ligaments come from nociceptors within the tissue. The posterior longitudinal ligament is innervated by branches of the sinuvertebral nerve that re-enter the spinal canal and supply the PLL and nearby structures. Because these nociceptive fibers are present, irritation, degeneration, or inflammation of the PLL can generate pain. This makes the innervation-related pain risk of the PLL significant. The ligament isn’t simply inert tissue; its nerve supply allows it to contribute to back pain when stressed.

Pain signals from spinal ligaments come from nociceptors within the tissue. The posterior longitudinal ligament is innervated by branches of the sinuvertebral nerve that re-enter the spinal canal and supply the PLL and nearby structures. Because these nociceptive fibers are present, irritation, degeneration, or inflammation of the PLL can generate pain. This makes the innervation-related pain risk of the PLL significant. The ligament isn’t simply inert tissue; its nerve supply allows it to contribute to back pain when stressed.