Which structure is involved in the sensation of deep pressure?

The sensation of deep pressure is primarily mediated by Pacinian corpuscles. These specialized mechanoreceptors are located deep within the dermis and in various other tissues such as joints, tendons, and the periosteum. They are uniquely structured to respond to high-frequency vibrations and deep pressure stimuli by converting mechanical pressure into electrical signals that the nervous system can interpret.

Pacinian corpuscles are characterized by their onion-like layers that allow them to rapidly adapt to pressure changes, making them particularly effective at detecting sudden bursts of pressure or vibrations, unlike other sensory receptors that may be more sensitive to light touch or sustained pressure. This function is crucial in many practical applications, including recognizing objects by their weight or texture without direct sight.

In contrast, Ruffini's corpuscles are designed to sense skin stretch and sustained pressure, and their primary role is to detect changes over longer periods. Meissner's corpuscles, on the other hand, are sensitive to light touch and vibrations, while Merkel cells play a role in sensing tactile form and texture. Each of these receptors has specialized functions, but it is the Pacinian corpuscles that are predominantly responsible for the sensation of deep pressure.