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Vertebra

From Anne Asher, About.com

Updated March 13, 2007

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There are 26 vertebrae that make up the back bone, or vertebral column.  This bone is a vertebra.(c) Anne Asher 2006 licensed to About.com
The term 'vertebra' refers to one spinal bone. Twenty-six vertebrae make up the spinal column. A vertebra consists of a body in front and a bony ring in back. The bony ring has parts that contribute to joint anatomy and that allow for muscles and ligaments to attach. The inside of the ring is a passageway for the spinal cord. Nerves branch off from the spinal cord and exit the spine by means of holes on the sides of vertebrae.
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