How foot sensation and uneven weight affect balance and walking after stroke
Investigation of the Relationship Between Plantar Sensation, Lower Extremity Position Sense, and Weight-Bearing Asymmetry With Posture, Balance, and Mobility in Individuals With Chronic Stroke
We will test whether reduced foot sensation, poor lower-leg position sense, and uneven weight-bearing are linked to balance and walking ability in adults with chronic stroke.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 22 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Afyonkarahisar, Center) |
| Trial ID | NCT07065292 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This cross-sectional observational project will enroll 24 adults at least six months post-stroke who are receiving physiotherapy at a rehabilitation center in Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye. Participants will complete non-invasive clinical tests of plantar sensation (Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments), lower extremity position sense, and dual-platform weight-bearing measurements, alongside functional measures including the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients, Timed Up and Go, STREAM mobility subtests, Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti, and the Activity-Specific Balance Confidence Scale. Investigators will analyze associations between sensory measures, weight-bearing asymmetry, and functional outcomes to identify patterns linked to postural control and mobility limitations. The results aim to clarify sensory–motor relationships that could inform more targeted rehabilitation strategies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults (≥18 years) at least six months after a physician-confirmed stroke who can follow simple instructions (MMSE ≥20), have Brunnstrom lower-extremity stage ≥3, and can complete balance and mobility tests with or without walking aids.
Not a fit: Patients with additional neurological, metabolic, or orthopedic conditions, severe vision or hearing impairments, or very high lower-limb spasticity (Modified Ashworth Score of 4) are excluded and unlikely to benefit from these specific findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help clinicians target sensory problems to improve balance and walking for people living with chronic stroke.
How similar studies have performed: Previous observational studies have reported links between plantar sensation, proprioception, and balance after stroke, though targeted interventions based on these combined measures remain limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of stroke confirmed by a physician (via official report) * Minimum of 6 months since stroke onset * Aged 18 years or older * Mini-Mental State Examination score ≥ 20 * Brunnstrom lower extremity stage ≥ 3 * Ability to complete assessments with or without walking aids * Voluntary participation Exclusion Criteria: * Additional neurological, metabolic, or orthopedic conditions * Severe vision or hearing impairments * Modified Ashworth Score of 4 in any lower limb muscle
Where this trial is running
Afyonkarahisar, Center
- Turkuaz Academy Private Education Center — Afyonkarahisar, Center, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yunus Emre Kundakcı Assoc. Prof. — Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University
- Study coordinator: Uğurcan Turkoz Physiotherapist
- Email: turkozugurcan@gmail.com
- Phone: +90 554 448 17 77
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.