In between each vertebra, you have intervertebral discs. These are tough, fibrous structures that act as cushions and shock absorbers for the spine. They are made of two parts:

* Nucleus pulposus: This is the soft, jelly-like center of the disc. It's mainly made of water and acts as a cushion to absorb forces on the spine.

* Annulus fibrosus: This is the tough outer layer of the disc, made of strong, fibrous rings that surround the nucleus pulposus. It helps to keep the disc in place and limits its movement.

Intervertebral discs play several important roles:

* Support: They help to support the weight of the body and distribute it evenly along the spine.

* Flexibility: They allow the spine to bend and twist.

* Shock absorption: They act as shock absorbers to protect the spine from impact forces.

Problems with intervertebral discs can lead to conditions like herniated discs, which can cause pain and nerve compression.