Ground reaction forces during ambulation with prototype rolling footwear

Addresses the dynamic reaction forces acting on each foot during ambulation using prototype rolling footwear (RF). RF is an assistive device, similar to roller-skates but its rear wheels are locked when the user is standing. It rolls when the load on the rear axle is shifted either forward or to the opposite foot. This device promises ambulation at a lower energy cost than other methods where the subject's foot must be unloaded completely for each step. The RF was assessed for improvements to facilitate locomotion.