Mechanoreceptor

Definition

Mechanoreceptors are specialized sensory nerve cells located in the skin, muscles, and inner ears that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. They play a key role in sensing touch, pressure, vibration, and sound.

Related terms

Proprioception:

The ability to sense the position and movement of our body parts without seeing them.

Nociceptor: A type of sensory neuron that responds to potentially damaging stimuli by sending pain signals to the nervous system.

Pacinian corpuscles: Specialized mechanoreceptors found deep in the skin and other tissues that detect pressure and vibration