Distinctive patterns could allow doctors to develop better
rehab programs for stroke patients.
The simple act of picking up a pencil requires the
coordination of dozens of muscles: The eyes and head must turn toward the
object as the hand reaches forward and the fingers grasp it. To make this job
more manageable, the brain’s motor cortex has implemented a system of
shortcuts. Instead of controlling each muscle independently, the cortex is
believed to activate muscles in groups, known as “muscle synergies.” These
synergies can be combined in different ways to achieve a wide range of
movements.