Objective A finite element model of T2-L5 thoracolumbar spine was established. The model was validated under various load conditions to provide model support for exploring the dynamic response characteristics and injury mechanism under spinal impact load. Methods A three-dimensional finite element model of T2-L5 thoracolumbar spine was established based on CT scan data. The load-rotation angle curve of T12-L1 segment under different moments (flexion and extension, rotation and lateral bending conditions) was calculated and compared with the data reported in the literatures. The free-fall load at different heights was applied to the finite element models of T2-T6, T7-T11 and T12-L5 spine. The peak axial force and bending moment were obtained by finite element simulation analysis and compared with the data reported in the literatures. Results The maximum rotation angle of T12-L1 finite element model was -2.24 ° ~ 1.55 ° under different direction moments, which was in good agreement with the literature data. The peak axial force of three segments of spine finite element models T2-T6, T7-T11 and T12-L5 subjected to different free-fall load was 1.7 kN~5.3 kN, 1.3 kN~5.5 kN and 1.3 kN~7.5 kN respectively, which were within the range of literature data errors; the spine and intervertebral disc stress clouds showed that the vertebral body was first stressed from the outer edge, and the intervertebral disc was subjected to the main load by the nucleus pulposus, which was in line with the actual spinal injury mechanism. Conclusion The T2-L5 spine model established in this paper can correctly simulate the biomechanical behavior characteristics of the spine under different operating conditions, and the analysis results are effective.