Torso bones. Computer artwork of the bones of the human torso. The backbone (running vertically down the centre) is a flexible column of 26 bones (vertebrae). It encloses and protects the spinal cord, and is connected to the skull (not seen) and to the pelvis (lower centre). The bones of the pelvis articulate (connect) with both the backbone and the leg bones (not seen), and also protect the lower abdominal organs. The 12 pairs of ribs are connected to the backbone, and form a cage (upper centre) to protect the heart and lungs. The back's scapula (shoulder blade) bones articulate with the arm bones (not seen). The clavicles (collarbones) are attached to the top of the ribcage.