The vertebral column is composed of 33 vertebrae divided into cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal sections. Each vertebra has a body, vertebral arch and processes including transverse and spinous processes. The vertebral column is segmented and flexible due to intervertebral discs between vertebrae. It encloses the spinal cord and transmits nerves and vessels through intervertebral foramina. The number and fusion of vertebrae can vary between individuals.