Unfortunately, procedures for early ambulation are standardized in Japan for only mild neurological impairments. Stroke care units, which provide treatment through the combined efforts of various healthcare practitioners, were introduced only in the early 21st century in Japanese hospitals, but standardized procedures for early ambulation by elevating a patient’s upper body while observing the patient’s physical condition have not been established yet in this country (Fjaertoft, Indredavik, & Lydersen, 2003; Indredavik et al., 1991; Langhorne, Williams, Gilchrist, & Howie, 1993).