When the vertebrae are articulated with each other the bodies form a strong pillar for the support of the head and trunk, and the vertebral foramina constitute a canal for the protection of the medulla spinalis (spinal cord), while between every pair of vertebræ are two apertures, the intervertebral foramina, one on either side, for the transmission of the spinal nerves and vessels.

External links

• Diagram at mcgill.ca
• Diagram at waynesburg.edu
• Diagram at emory.edu