spinal column

The vertebral column is made up of different kinds of articulated bones (vertebrae) supporting the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord.

atlas

First cervical vertebra supporting the head and supported by the axis.

axis

Second cervical vertebra supporting the atlas; it allows the head to rotate.

cervical vertebra (7)

Bony part of the neck forming the upper terminal part of the spinal column.

thoracic vertebra (12)

Bony part supporting the ribs located between the cervical and lumbar vertebrae.

lumbar vertebra (5)

Bony part larger than the other vertebrae located between the dorsal vertebrae and the sacrum; it supports a major portion of the body’s weight.

sacrum

Bone made up of five fused vertebrae located between the lumbar and coccyx vertebrae.

coccyx

Bone made up of four to six fused vertebrae in the lower terminal part of the spinal column, and articulating with the sacrum.

intervertebral foramen

Orifice located between two contiguous vertebrae on each side of the column allowing nerves to pass through.

intervertebral disk

Flat rounded cartilaginous structure separating two vertebrae; its elasticity allows the vertebral column to move.

vertebral body

Anterior bony cylinder of a vertebra surrounded by two transverse processes.

transverse process

Bony protuberance extending laterally from each side of the vertebra; the muscles are attached to it.