Thoracic Vertebrae: Location, Function & Anatomy

The thoracic vertebrae are located in the middle section of the spine, between the cervical (neck) vertebrae and the lumbar (lower back) vertebrae. There are 12 thoracic vertebrae, each of which is connected to a pair of ribs. The thoracic vertebrae are responsible for providing support for the upper body and protecting the vital organs in the chest, such as the heart and lungs.