Step 1: Understanding flexor synergy.
Flexor synergy refers to a specific pattern of movements often seen in individuals with hemiplegia, particularly after a stroke. These patterns are involuntary and can hinder voluntary movements.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (1) Scapular protraction, shoulder adduction, internal rotation, elbow extension, forearm supination, wrist and finger flexion: Incorrect. This does not reflect the typical movement pattern seen with stroke-induced flexor synergy.
- (2) Scapular retraction, shoulder abduction, external rotation, elbow flexion, forearm pronation, wrist and finger extension: Incorrect. This is the opposite of the flexor synergy pattern.
- (3) Scapular protraction, shoulder adduction, internal rotation, elbow extension, forearm pronation, wrist and finger flexion: Correct. This represents the typical flexor synergy pattern, involving flexion at the shoulder, elbow, and wrist with associated postural changes.
- (4) Scapular retraction, shoulder abduction, external rotation, elbow flexion, forearm supination, wrist and finger flexion: Incorrect. This represents an extensor synergy rather than flexor synergy.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (3), as it accurately describes the flexor synergy pattern seen after a stroke.