Clinical Research Directory

Inclusion Criteria: * At least 2 months since stroke onset * A Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of 24 or higher and no communication difficulties * Ability to stand independently for at least 20 seconds * Ability to walk 10 meters independently, with walking aids or orthoses if needed * Age between 45 and 70 years * Spasticity of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles graded no higher than 2 on the Modified Ashworth Scale * A Brunnstrom lower-extremity motor recovery stage of 4 or higher Exclusion Criteria: * Rigidity of the ankle plantar flexor muscles * Severe osteoarthritis of the lower extremity * Presence of cancer or diabetic neuropathy * Presence of a vestibular disorder * Lower-extremity ulceration or amputation * History of vertigo * Alcohol consumption within the previous 24 hours * Hemodynamic instability * Posterior circulation stroke involving the basilar artery or cerebellum * Presence of other neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease * Acute lower-extremity injury within the previous 6 weeks * History of lower-extremity surgery * Presence of foot deformity