Stroke often leads to postural asymmetry and impaired trunk control, which negatively affect mobility, balance, coordination, and activities of daily living. These impairments increase the risk of falls and reduce functional independence during the rehabilitation process.

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to investigate the effects of posture-oriented kinesio taping, applied in addition to standard neurological rehabilitation, on functional outcomes in patients with stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving kinesio taping plus standard rehabilitation or a control group receiving standard rehabilitation alone.

Functional outcomes including trunk control, postural stability, balance, mobility, and activities of daily living will be assessed using validated clinical scales at baseline and after the intervention period. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the clinical effectiveness of posture-oriented kinesio taping as a non-invasive and easily applicable adjunct treatment in stroke rehabilitation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 years or older
• Diagnosis of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke confirmed clinically and/or radiologically
• In the subacute or chronic phase of stroke (≥1 month post-stroke) and clinically stable
• Presence of postural control and/or trunk control impairment
• Ability to participate in a standard neurological rehabilitation program
• No severe cognitive impairment or communication disorder that would interfere with outcome assessments
• Intact skin at the kinesio taping application sites
• Willingness to participate and provision of written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute stroke phase or clinical instability
• Severe cognitive impairment, aphasia, or insufficient cooperation that would interfere with reliable outcome assessments
• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to kinesio tape
• Active dermatological conditions at taping sites (e.g., open wounds, dermatitis, infection)
• Severe spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale ≥3)
• Presence of other neurological disorders affecting balance or mobility (e.g., Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis)
• Severe orthopedic conditions or cardiopulmonary diseases limiting participation in rehabilitation
• Receipt of posture-oriented kinesio taping within the previous 3 months
• Concurrent participation in another interventional clinical study that could influence study outcomes