cutaneous sense
Quick Summary
Cutaneous sensation refers to sensations perceived through the skin, including touch, pressure, warmth, cold, and pain. The skin contains specialized nerve endings, or receptors, that detect these different stimuli. Studies show distinct spots on the skin are sensitive to pressure, warm temperatures, cold temperatures, and pain.123
These sensations are processed through nerve pathways in the spinal cord and brain. Different types of nerve fibers transmit these signals at varying speeds. The brain then interprets these signals, allowing us to perceive our environment through touch and temperature.34
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