The authors describe the continuous evolution of the anatomy of the spinal column since its morphogenesis, which starts as early as the third week in utero with gastrulation and is then marked by the major event of resegmentation. This evolution continues with growth, during childhood and adolescence, and linked to cartilages whose roles are clearly defined. The result of this complex building is a transitional state considered to be normal anatomy, but which rapidly undergoes structural and functional modifications, essentially linked to the properties of the main joint, the intervertebral disc. These changes remain physiological up to a certain point, which will be defined much more by clinical events rather than morphological factors.