There are two distinct sets of articulations in the vertebral column:

1. Those between the bodies and intervertebral discs which form synchondroses and which are amphiarthrodial as regards movement.
2. Those between the articular processes which form arthrodial joints.

The ligaments which unite the various parts may also be divided into two sets, viz. - immediate, or those that bind together parts which are in contact; and intermediate, or those that bind together parts which are not in contact.

Immediate.

1.  Those between the bodies and discs.
2. Those between the articular processes.

Intermediate.

1. Those between the laminae.
2. Those between the spinous processes.
3. Those between the transverse processes.