Cervical vs thoracic vs lumbar vertebrae: how they differ, in 3D

Frequently asked questions

How many cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebrae are there?

There are 7 cervical, 12 thoracic and 5 lumbar vertebrae, 24 in all. Below them, the sacrum is formed from five fused vertebrae and the coccyx from about four small fused vertebrae.

How do the three kinds of vertebrae differ in shape?

Cervical vertebrae have small bodies and a transverse foramen in each transverse process; the vertebral artery runs through those of the 1st to 6th. Thoracic vertebrae have facets on their bodies and transverse processes where the ribs attach, and long spinous processes that slope downwards. Lumbar vertebrae have the largest bodies and short, thick spinous processes.

Which way does each part of the spine curve?

Seen from the side, the cervical and lumbar parts curve forwards and the thoracic part curves backwards, so the whole spine forms a gentle S shape.