Somatosensation and Touch

These flashcards cover key concepts related to somatosensation and the physiology of touch as discussed in the provided lecture notes.

What is somatosensation?

Collectively, sensory signals from the skin, muscles, tendons, joints, and internal receptors.

What is proprioception?

Perception mediated by kinesthetic and internal receptors that provides sensory information about the position of body and limbs.

What are mechanoreceptors?

Receptors that respond to mechanical stimulation, including pressure, vibration, or movement.

Name two populations of thermoreceptors.

Warmth fibers and cold fibers.

What are nociceptors?

Sensory receptors that transmit information about noxious stimulation that can cause damage to the skin.

What is the Gate Control Theory?

A theory describing how pain transmission can be modulated by signals from the brain.

What is cortical plasticity?

The ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, especially in response to injury.

What are C-tactile mechanoreceptors?

A type of receptor responsive to slow, gentle touch, which is involved in the perception of pleasant touch.

What is haptic perception?

Knowledge of the world derived from sensory receptors in skin, muscles, tendons, and joints, usually involving active exploration.

What is the function of the anterior cingulate cortex in pain perception?

It is associated with the perceived unpleasantness of pain sensations.