Sensory neurons are first-order neurons located in the peripheral nervous system. First-order neurons synapse with a(n) second sensory neuron located in the spinal cord. These neurons are also called association order neurons, and they synapse with third-order neurons in the somatosensory thalamus. Third-order neurons in the thalamus transmit information to the primary somatosensory area of the cerebral cortex. These sensory pathways cross to the opposite side of the CNS somewhere during their ascent. Pathways that do not reach the cerebral cortex are not consciously perceived, such as some proprioception and visceral nerve pathways. Study the table in your textbook that lists and describes the classification of sensory receptors. Pick ONE and provide an example, explaining how that example classifies the receptor in the particular category. Proprioceptors located in the muscles, tendons, joints, and ears. Proprioceptors are related to body movement of position and motions of joints and equilibrium. Muscle spindles are an example of proprioceptors where our body receives stimuli due to the position and movement that we are doing. Our skeletal muscles participate in stretch reflexes.
