Between the other cervical vertebrae and those in the thoracic and lumbar spine, each vertebra articulates with the ones directly superior and inferior through two types of joints. The intervertebral joint is a specialized symphysis between all vertebrae except C1 and C2 (atlas and axis). A thin layer of cartilage covers the inferior and superior surfaces of the vertebral body, and between each is an intervertebral disc. Each vertebra also connects to its inferior and superior articular processes with the vertebra immediately below and above, respectively, via the facet or apophyseal joint. A synovial gliding joint, the facet joint assists in force transmission and also helps restrict excessive movement that might injure the spine.

Lateral view of a vertebra

Cervical vertebrae, superior and lateral views.

Reprinted, by permission, from Joseph E. Donnelly, 1990, Living anatomy, 2nd ed., (Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics), 103.

Thoracic vertebrae, superior and lateral views.

Reprinted, by permission, from Joseph E. Donnelly, 1982, Living anatomy, (Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics), 83.

Lumbar vertebrae, superior and lateral views.

Reprinted, by permission, from Joseph E. Donnelly, 1982, Living anatomy, (Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics), 83.

Longitudinal section of intervertebral joints and ligaments

Reprinted, by permission, from Joseph E. Donnelly, 1982, Living anatomy, (Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics), 87.