The purpose of this study is to analyze the stabilization of posture during stepping. The research will combine experimental and theoretical approaches. Experiments on normal subjects will measure ground reaction forces and the electrical activity of muscles using surface electrodes. The mechanical system is described by a 3-dimensional mathematical model that has 8 degrees of freedom; this model will be used for the interpretation of the experimental results. The research will increase understanding of the stepping process, and may lead to the improved design for functional electrical stimulation systems. Such systems are being increasingly utilized in research to restore motility in paraplegic individuals.
