A side-loading bone anchor is provided, which may be used in cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral areas of the spine or other orthopedic locations. In one embodiment, the anchor includes an anchoring portion, a receiving portion, and an internal piece that is rotatable with respect to the receiving portion at least to a degree. The anchoring portion is attached to a bone. A rod or other elongated support member is received in the receiving portion in contact with the internal piece. The rod and internal piece may be rotated for variability substantially in a plane, and a set screw is threaded into the receiving portion to lock the rod within the receiving portion.