Somatosensory system

The somatosensory system, also known as the somatic sensory system, is a complex network responsible for processing sensations from throughout the body. It encompasses specialized peripheral receptors—such as mechanoreceptors (for touch and vibration), thermoreceptors (for temperature), nociceptors (for pain), and proprioceptors (for body position)—as well as their associated neurons. These signals are transmitted via peripheral nerves to the spinal cord and brain where they are mapped in an organized fashion to preserve spatial information about stimulus location. The somatosensory cortex interprets these inputs to produce conscious perception of touch, temperature changes, pain sensations, and proprioceptive feedback necessary for coordinated movement. Dysfunction in this network can lead to clinical conditions such as neuropathies or chronic pain disorders.

Other names

Somatic sensory systemGeneral somatic sensesTouch system