13. The somatosensory system
13. The somatosensory system
- Gillian Pocock, Gillian PocockSenior Lecturer in Clinical Science, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, UK
- Christopher D. RichardsChristopher D. RichardsEmeritus Professor of Experimental Physiology, Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, Faculty of Life Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- and David A. RichardsDavid A. RichardsAssociate Professor, Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Husson University School of Pharmacy, Bangor, Maine, USA
Abstract
This chapter explains that skin is the interface between the body and the outside world. Skin is not uniformly sensitive over its surface. The chapter analyses the punctate distribution of various sensations: specific points of the skin are sensitive to touch, others are sensitive to cooling, warming, or noxious stimuli. The muscles and joints possess sensory receptors that provide information concerning the disposition and movement of the limbs, which is relayed to the spinal cord and brain by the afferent nerves of the somatosensory system. The chapter talks about nerve endings and encapsulated receptors. This prompts three key questions. Why are there so many different kinds of receptor? What are their functions? How do the various receptors convert the different kinds of stimuli into nerve impulses? To answer these questions, it is necessary to examine the responses of particular receptors to specific stimuli.
