One of the more painful complications of stroke is a condition known as "claw toe." After a brain injury, your parent's muscles may overcontract. This causes the toes to curl under, making walking excruciatingly painful. Depending on the severity of your parent's claw toe, he may get some relief by using foam separators (available at beauty supply stores) -- or even by placing Styrofoam "peanuts" between his toes.