Encapsulated ending

Definition

An encapsulated ending is a type of sensory nerve ending surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue, which enhances its sensitivity to specific types of stimuli. It plays a crucial role in the somatic nervous system by converting physical stimuli into nerve impulses that are interpreted as sensations such as touch and pressure.

Related terms

Meissner's corpuscles: Specialized nerve endings in the skin that are responsible for sensitivity to light touch.

Pacinian corpuscles: Nerve endings deep in the dermis and hypodermis that respond to deep pressure and vibration.

Proprioception:

The sense that allows perception of body position and movement through sensory neurons located within joints, muscles, and tendons