human being > anatomy > skeleton > vertebral column image

Look up an image:

Explore by theme

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

See vertebral column in : french | spanish

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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