Fat Pad Atrophy
Comments (0) For most of us, losing fat is considered a goal, and something that many Americans strive for each year. However, when it comes to our feet, the reverse is true, and as we age the fat in our heels sometimes becomes thin and something to hold on to for as long as possible. Imagine driving a car in which the tire treads have worn thin, the air pressure is low, and the rims are nearly riding against the ground. The same principle occurs when the layer of fat beneath our ‘calcaneus’ or heel bone becomes worn down. Often times, this phenomenon is the cause for a great amount of heel pain.
While it’s commonly thought that age is the cause of fat pad breakdown, there are also many other important causes and factors. Surgery, diabetic nerve problems, arthritic conditions, the use of steroids or steroid injections, and even a unique disorder known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome can all lead to fat pad thinning. Of course, the way that we use our bodies can also play a big role. In the same way that cartilage tends to break down with overuse leading to knee and other problems, the cushioning fat pad of our heels can also wear out due to certain lifestyles, being overweight, or simply from genetics.
Heel pain in general is a very broad topic which includes disorders of nerves, blood-flow, inflammation, metabolism, and even tumors. Therefore, it’s never a bad idea to visit your local Chandler foot doctor if you are having symptoms, because these other conditions can be properly ruled out. Fat pad atrophy may go on to cause stress fractures or various arthritic conditions, so a thorough evaluation including X-rays can indicate whether a more serious process is foreseeable.
Much research is currently in the works regarding the injection of silicone and other synthetic materials to act as a near-natural replacement for fat pad loss. This may hold great promise in the future. For now, however, the gold standard of treatment continues to be specific shoe gear modifications, padding, and the use of customized inserts to provide optimal support to the heel bone. Feel free to discuss your best options with your podiatrist.
Despite some of the natural changes that occur with aging, there are still some very viable options to keep you healthy and active. The best thing you can do for your overall well-being is to stay on your feet.
