Receptors are nerve cells than send information to the brain.

 

Mechanoreceptors are nerve cells that relay mechanical information to the brain. Mechanical information can include physical changes of the body:  such as hard and soft surfaces, pressure, vibrations, warmth or cold, muscle tension, joint position  and more . They can help your brain determine if you are stepping on a rock, (one part of soft tissue under your foot is squished compared to the other parts), if your phone is vibrating in your pocket, if the wind is blowing the hairs on your arm,  and if your arm is bent, it feels different than when it is straight.