somatosensation

noun

so·​mato·​sen·​sa·​tion sō-ˌma-tə-sen-ˈsā-shən 

ˌsō-mə-tə-

: the largely subconscious perception of stimuli associated with temperature, light touch, pain, body position, and movement through specialized receptors chiefly in the skin, joints, and muscles that are processed by the somatosensory system of the parietal lobes

Imagine that you're walking barefoot across a field on this summer's morning. … You can feel the warmth of the sun, … a caressing summer breeze and the fine texture of blades of grass underneath your feet. These impressions of temperature, touch and movement are feelings relying on somatosensation.

—Patrik Ernfors, quoted in Tampa Bay Times

compare mechanoreceptor, nociceptor, proprioceptor, thermoreceptor

Word History

Etymology

somato- + sensation

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

somatosensation

noun

so·​ma·​to·​sen·​sa·​tion sō-ˌmat-ə-sen-ˈsā-shən 

ˌsō-mət-ə-

: the largely subconscious perception of stimuli associated with temperature, light touch, pain, body position, and movement through specialized receptors chiefly in the skin, joints, and muscles that are processed by the somatosensory system of the parietal lobes

Somatosensation enables identification of the location of one's limbs in space and in relation to the nearby environment. It is important for maintaining upright posture during locomotion and while completing activities in daily living.

—Ashleigh Marchant et al., Perceptual and Motor Skills

Peripheral neuropathy and loss of somatosensation in older adults with type 2 diabetes can increase risk of falls and disability.

—Elisabeth I. Cavegn and Jody L. Riskowsi, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

… the importance of touch sensation to performance of valued activities after stroke, highlighting the relationship between somatosensation and quality of life.

—Winnie Dunn et al., The American Journal of Occupational Therapy

compare thermoreceptor, proprioceptor, mechanoreceptor, nociceptor