Our knowledge of orthopaedics. Your best health.

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SYSTEM ALERT: OrthoInfo will be down for maintenance from  5 p.m. to 6 p.m. (CST) on 4/23/2024.  We apologize for the inconvenience.

from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Diseases & Conditions

Treatment

Recovery

Staying Healthy

Anatomy of the Spine

This animation describes how the many parts of the spine —  including the vertebrae, intervertebral disks, and facet joints — work together to allow us to stand and move.

 

Animation courtesy of Visual Health Solutions, LLC

Last Reviewed

February 2014

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.