Fat Pad Atrophy: Causes, Effects, and Solutions

Our feet endure tremendous pressure with every step we take, thanks to a natural cushioning system called fat pads. These pads, located on the balls and heels of our feet, act as shock absorbers that protect bones and joints from impact. But what happens when these cushions start to thin?

Delve into the world of fat pad atrophy with us at My Chicago Foot Expert.

Causes of Fat Pad Atrophy

Fat pad atrophy is the thinning or loss of the protective fat pads on the soles of your feet. This can occur due to a variety of factors, including:

• Aging: As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally tend to thin out.
• High-Impact Activities: Repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping can accelerate fat pad degeneration.
• Biomechanical Issues: Abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation or high arches, can place excessive pressure on certain areas of the foot.
• Medical Conditions: Interestingly, conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain genetic disorders can contribute to fat pad loss.

The Effects of Fat Pad Atrophy

The thinning of the fat pads can lead to a variety of symptoms, including a deep, aching pain, tenderness, and a feeling that you are walking on your bone. You may also develop calluses because that’s the body’s way of compensating for the lack of cushion surrounding the area.

For those with severe fat loss, it may prove difficult to stand for long periods without feeling pain. These people are also at an increased risk of stress fractures.

Treatment and Management

Fat pad atrophy has a promising slate of treatments and management techniques, including innovative ones such as fat grafting, where they take fat from another part of your body and attach it to the affected area.

Beyond this, more common, conservative approaches are still sufficient.

Custom Orthotics, heel cups, cushioned footwear, padding and taping, and lifestyle modifications such as weight loss are all effective ways to manage fat pad atrophy.

Reach out to the amazing staff at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to book an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood location today.