Fig. 3

Vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) in stroke versus controls. a Representative vertical ground reaction force curves. During the shock absorption phase (~ 0.07–0.22 s), oscillation of vertical force was observed. Following the shock absorption phase, vertical force increased and eventually reached maximal weight-bearing. b Group comparisons of VGRF at peak ankle dorsiflexion and at maximal weight-bearing. *p < 0.05