Articulations of the Vertebral Column

The vertebrae of the spinal column articulate with each other as well as with other bones of the body.

All adjacent vertebrae from C2 to S1 form intervertebral joints by articulating at two regions — the vertebral body and the articular processes.

Two adjoining vertebral bodies are connected via the symphysis — a cartilaginous joint formed of fibrocartilage.

In contrast, the superior process of one vertebra articulates with the inferior process of the next vertebra via the zygapophysis — a synovial plane joint.

Together, these intervertebral joints allow the anterior, posterior, and lateral bending of the body along with rotational movement.

In the neck, the atlas or C1 and the axis or C2 vertebrae are connected by the atlanto-axial pivot joint, allowing head rotation.

Additionally, C1 articulates with the occipital bone to form the atlanto-occipital joint, facilitating flexion and extension of the head. 

Further, the thoracic vertebrae form synovial plane joints with the ribs, allowing gliding movement of the ribs during respiration.

Lastly, the sacrum articulates with the ilium of the pelvis, forming the sacroiliac synovial joint.