It is hypothesized that crutch ambulation can be improved and made easier through the application and expansion of what is currently known about bipedal locomotion.
Bipedal locomotion is presently several times more efficient than locomotion on crutches.
The goal of this research to find out why this is so. Passive dynamic bipedal walking machines have been built that walk down shallow inclines with only the influence of gravity supplying energy. Some investigators of human gait hypothesize that the human body also uses some of these methods. Rockers have also been successful in restoring functional walking to some individuals suffering from multiple sclerosis by using rocker-soled shoes. Rockers are also used in orthotics.