Ruffini endings respond to which type of physical sensation?

Ruffini endings, also known as Ruffini corpuscles, are specialized sensory receptors found in the skin and in joint capsules. They are particularly responsive to the mechanical stimuli associated with skin deformation, specifically the sensation of stretch. These receptors are adapted to monitor the continuous or sustained stretch of the skin and other tissues, providing the central nervous system with information about the degree and duration of stretch.

When pressure is applied to the skin, Ruffini endings become activated and send signals to the brain about the tension in the underlying tissues. This ability to detect stretch is crucial for proprioception, the awareness of body position and movement, as it helps the body recognize changes in position and the extent of muscle stretch.

In contrast, while other receptors are responsible for detecting touch, pressure, and temperature, it is the Ruffini endings that primarily focus on the sensation of stretch. This specificity in function highlights the complexity of the sensory system and the specialized roles different receptors play in processing various types of physical sensations.