How many vertebrae are typically found in the human spine?

The human spine typically consists of 33 vertebrae. These vertebrae are divided into different regions: 7 cervical (neck), 12 thoracic (upper back), 5 lumbar (lower back), 5 sacral (which fuse to form the sacrum), and 4 coccygeal (which form the coccyx or tailbone). While some texts may list variations due to the fusion of sacral or coccygeal vertebrae in certain individuals, the standard count of 33 is widely accepted in anatomical references. This understanding is fundamental in fields such as medicine and physical therapy, as knowing the structure of the spine is crucial for diagnosing and treating spinal injuries and conditions.