Are integral part of secondary cartilaginous joints between vertebral bodies (except C1/2)
Are composed of a tough annulus fibrosus surrounding an avascular, gelatinous nucleus pulposus
Act as "shock absorbers" and semifluid ball bearings to provide small movements between individual vertebrae
Zygapophysial (or facet) joints
Are synovial joints between the superior and inferior articular processes
Are surrounded by thin, loose articular capsule
Permit gliding movements between vertebrae
Atlanto-occipital joints
Are synovial joints between the lateral masses of atlas and occipital condyles
Permit flexion/extension and some lateral bending and rotation
Atlantoaxial joints
Are three synovial joints between the inferior lateral masses of C1 and the superior facets of C2 and between the anterior arch of C1
and the dens of C2
Permit rotation of C1 (and the head), which is limited by the alar ligaments
Costovertebral joints Synovial, between the vertebrae and ribs (see: Thorax)
Sacroiliac (SI) joints. Synovial joints (see: Pelvis and Perineum)
Ligament Features
Anterior longitudinal Limits extension
Maintains stability of IV discs
Posterior longitudinal Limits flexion
Prevents IV disc herniation
Intertransverse Limits lateral bending
Interspinous Limits flexion
Supraspinous Limits flexion
Ligamenta flava Limits flexion
Preserves curvature of column
Prevents injury to the IV discs
Ligamentum nuchae Prevents cervical hyperflexion
Attachment site for trapezius and rhomboid minor[Plate 22, External Craniocervical Ligaments]