Anterior longitudinal ligament – runs the length of the vertebral column on the anterior surfaces of the bodies of the vertebrae. The anterior longitudinal ligament is broader than the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Posterior longitudinal ligament – runs the length of the vertebral column on the posterior surfaces of the bodies of the vertebrae. This ligament resists direct posterior herniation of a disc so that herniation may occur, and cause pain, on one side.

Yellow ligament (ligamentum flavum) – an interrupted (not a continuous) ligament connecting the laminae of adjacent vertebrae and assisting in postural support. This ligament is relatively strong and must be punctured to perform epidural anesthesia or lumbar puncture.

Nuchal ligament – attaches posteriorly to the external occipital protuberance and extends to the foramen magnum as well as the spinous processes of the cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae. It is a fibroelastic sheet that supports the weight of the head against gravity.

Supraspinous ligament – extends along the tips of vertebral spinous processes.

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Ligaments of the spine