College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What role do lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscles play in the body?

1. Sense temperature changes

2. Detect deep pressure and vibration

3. Regulate blood flow

4. Control muscle contractions

The correct answer is: Detect deep pressure and vibration

Lamellated (Pacinian) corpuscles are specialized mechanoreceptors found in the skin and other tissues, primarily responsible for detecting deep pressure and vibration. These sensory receptors are structured to respond to rapid changes in pressure or the vibration of surfaces, making them integral to our sense of touch and proprioception. When pressure is applied to a tissue, the layered structure of the Pacinian corpuscles allows them to rapidly adapt to the stimulus, providing feedback about changes in pressure over time. This is especially important for activities that involve gripping or manipulating objects, as it helps to gauge how much force is necessary to perform these tasks without causing injury. Additionally, their sensitivity to vibration makes them crucial in detecting movement and texture changes in our surroundings. Understanding the specific function of Pacinian corpuscles helps highlight their importance in sensory perception, enabling us to interact safely and effectively with our environment.