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Heel Fat Pad Atrophy

Summary

Damage or wasting of the fat pad under your heel makes it painful to stand or walk.
Loss of fat pad can put more pressure on nerves and bloodvessels.

How did I get this?

Often associated with ageing, but may also be associated with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, peripheral vascular disease, trauma and long term corticosteroid use

What can I do about it?

  • Wear supportive cushioning footwear.
  • Avoid going barefoot.
  • Short term use of pain killers can relieve the pain.

What help can I get for this?

  • A Podiatrist will provide padding, cushioning or offloading pads, and advise appropriate footwear.
  • Xrays or scans may identify bony lumps or soft tissue abnormalities.

When will it get better?

  • A bruised fat pad should recover in 4-6 weeks with appropriate cushioning and footwear.
  • Wasting (atrophy) of the fat pad will require constant protection from footwear and padding