What type of sensation do Ruffini corpuscles primarily detect?

Ruffini corpuscles, also known as Ruffini endings, are specialized sensory receptors located within the skin, joints, and connective tissues. Their primary function is to detect stretch and joint movement. They are sensitive to sustained pressure and are particularly important in providing feedback about the position of joints and the movement of body parts.

These receptors respond to the deformation of the surrounding tissue, which occurs when a joint is moved or when the skin is stretched. This information about stretch and joint position is crucial for proprioception, allowing the body to maintain balance and coordinate movements effectively.

Understanding the role of Ruffini corpuscles helps in recognizing how this sensory input is vital for activities that require body awareness and muscular coordination.