Three methods for investigating, assessing and supporting the normal and pathological gait and manipulation activity

Three methods to describe biped locomotion as well as manipulation activity are presented. Methods using so-called couple oscillators as rhythm generators are described. Based on a mathematical model, results of computer simulation of biped locomotion are presented. An indices method of assessing human gait for both normal and pathological cases was proposed and tested. The results showed that it is relatively easy to distinguish different gaits by using this method. This method was tested in clinical conditions. The third method deals with the problem of supporting the lost function of prehension movements. Implanted stimulators on the nerves combined with external orthoses were used. The clinical results show that these methods have practical advantages.