SYSTEM ALERT: OrthoInfo will be down for maintenance from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.(CST) on 11/05/2026. We apologize for the inconvenience.
SYSTEM ALERT: OrthoInfo will be down for maintenance from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.(CST) on 11/05/2026. We apologize for the inconvenience.
This animation describes how the many parts of the spine — including the vertebrae, intervertebral disks, and facet joints — work together to allow our bodies to move in many different ways, including standing, bending, and twisting. Learn more about how the spine works: Spine Basics
Animation courtesy of Visual Health Solutions, LLC
AAOS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians referenced herein. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance should consult his or her orthopaedic surgeon, or locate one in your area through the AAOS Find an Orthopaedist program on this website.
The content on this website may have been translated from English into other languages using artificial intelligence tools. The translations are provided for the convenience of readers and may not been reviewed or verified by medical professionals. AAOS makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the translated information and disclaims all liability for any issues arising from its use. Users are strongly encouraged to refer to the original English content and consult qualified healthcare professionals before making any medical decisions. By using the translated content, you acknowledge and accept these limitations and assume full responsibility for any reliance on the information provided.
