Human Vertebral Column Model With Skull

Quick Answer: The Human Vertebral Column Model With Skull is a model of the human spine topped by the skull. As a vertebral column model with skull it shows how the head is carried on the upper vertebrae and how the column’s regions and curves support the body.

Where the Head Meets the Spine

The junction between the skull and the spine is one of the most instructive parts of this model. The occipital condyles on either side of the foramen magnum rest on the atlas, the first cervical vertebra, and the joint between them allows the nodding movement of ‘yes’. The atlas turns around the dens, a peg projecting up from the axis, the second cervical vertebra, and this atlanto-axial joint provides most of the rotation of ‘no’. Neither of these vertebrae looks typical: the atlas is a ring without a body, and the axis carries the dens instead.

Below the head the adult column is usually counted as 33 segments: seven cervical, twelve thoracic, five lumbar, five fused into the sacrum and about four forming the coccyx. Its curves develop in two stages. The thoracic and sacral curves, concave forwards, are present before birth and are called primary; the cervical curve forms as a baby begins to hold up its head, and the lumbar curve as the child sits and walks. Seeing the skull in position helps students understand why forward head posture adds load to the neck.

The listing names only the column and the skull. It does not state whether the pelvis, intervertebral discs or spinal nerves are included, whether the column bends, or the type of stand. The spine model with pelvis and femur heads extends the same study down to the hips.

Caring for a Full Spine Model

• Support the vertebral column model with skull at the skull and the sacrum when moving it, so the neck is not bent under the skull’s weight.
• Keep the model on its stand in a place where it cannot be knocked over.
• Dust it regularly with a soft brush, paying attention to the gaps between vertebrae.
• Avoid twisting the column beyond its natural range if it is flexible.

Specifications

Applications

• Teaching the regions and curves of the spine in anatomy and biology
• Explaining neck movement, whiplash and upper cervical injuries in physiotherapy and first-aid courses
• Posture education showing how head position loads the cervical spine
• Demonstrations for students and patients in chiropractic and orthopaedic teaching clinics

Why Choose LabEquip

Physiotherapy, chiropractic and anatomy teaching rooms buy a spine with skull when the craniovertebral junction and whole-column posture must be shown together. LabEquip lists it in Biology Lab Products; ask about the stand and which parts are included through the contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the skull sit on the vertebral column?

The occipital condyles at the base of the skull rest in shallow sockets on the atlas, the first cervical vertebra. This atlanto-occipital joint mainly allows nodding.

Which joint lets the head turn from side to side?

The atlanto-axial joint between the atlas and the axis. The atlas pivots around the dens, a bony peg on the axis, which provides most of the head’s rotation.

What are the primary and secondary curves of the spine?

The primary thoracic and sacral curves are present before birth. The secondary curves develop later: the cervical curve as an infant lifts its head and the lumbar curve as the child sits and starts walking.

How many vertebrae does the human spine have?

Usually 33 segments: 7 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 fused as the sacrum and about 4 fused as the coccyx. In adults this gives 26 separate bones.

Is the spine on this model flexible?

Some spine models are strung on a flexible core so the column can be bent to show movement, while others are rigid. The listing does not say which applies, so confirm it when you enquire.

Why is forward head posture a problem?

When the head moves forward of the shoulders, the neck muscles and lower cervical joints must work harder to hold it up. Over time this can contribute to neck pain and stiffness.

Last Updated: September 2026