It depends on how you count. If you count every synovial joint that touches a bone of the spine then you have... read more
There are two sets of facet joints for each vertebra (with the exception of the fused sacral vertebrae). Facet joints allow the spine to flex, extend, and twist. Facet joints are synovial joints. read more
Each vertebra has two sets of facet joints. One pair faces upward (superior articular facet) and one downward (inferior articular facet). There is one joint on each side (right and left). Facet joints are hinge–like and link vertebrae together. They are located at the back of the spine (posterior). read more
The three atlanto-axial joints are also synovial joints. One is found between the dens (odontoid process) of the axis (2nd cervical vertebra) and the anterior arch of the atlas (1st cervical vertebra), and two are located between the lateral masses of the 1st cervical vertebra and the superior articular facets of the 2nd cervical vertebra. read more