The beginning of 'striker foot' (Pes equinus varus) with severe stroke patients

An exploratory investigation into identifying the answers to two specific questions related to this condition. 1. Why do many individuals develop 'striker foot' following severe stroke? 2. What is the best intervention to help control its development? The answer to the first question lies within the lack of stability in the paretic leg when the patient attempts to move in bed using the other leg. With the second question the answer is less obvious, although there are indications that greater stability helps to maintain the muscular tone of the calf leading to better overall control. Throughout this investigation the only changing factor with stability was the mattress which suggested that more would be required to prevent 'striker foot' developing. Therefore further investigations are needed to gain a better understanding and help to reduce the numbers of severe stroke patients who go on to develop this condition.