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Fat Pad Atrophy
Plantar Fasciitis vs Fat Pad Atrophy Fat pad atrophy might be mistaken with plantar fasciitis or the other way around. This is because some symptoms are similar and located in almost the same area of the foot. However, there are some factors that can help us differentiate the two conditions. Plantar fasciitis is often seen in people with foot deformities or conditions, such as flat feet, while the main factor for fat pad atrophy is age. As to the symptoms, plantar fasciitis’ pain can be felt in the inner side of the heel, while fat pad atrophy’s pain is located in the outer side of the heel. A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine will diagnose the condition and will treat it according to the need of the patient. Did you know?
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With age, this pad becomes so thin that the foot starts to suffer from repetitive trauma. Irritation, inflammation, stress fractures, pain and many others are the results for such trauma. Symptoms A normal, healthy fat pad measures 1 to 2 cm in thickness. Seniors with this have less than 1 cm of fat pad. In some cases it might be asymptomatic, but others might experience the following symptoms:
Risk Factors
Rheumatological Diseases: Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma and lupus, affect the connective tissues in the feet aggravating the risk of fat pad atrophy. Foot Conditions: Seniors with foot conditions such as high arch can cause abnormal pressure on the heel leading to a higher risk of fat pad atrophy. Others: Weight, sports, diabetes, injuries and some types of medicine might increase the risks of fat pad atrophy in seniors. Family history or genetics can also play a role in development of this condition. Treatment According to the case, Doctors of Podiatric Medicine will assess and treat the condition. Custom made orthotics and shoes with good padding and support are the first steps to treat fat pad atrophy. Nowadays, shoes brands have created footwear specialized for seniors’ needs. Consult your Podiatrist for better assessment. Fat Grafting: Method in which fat cells are harvested through liposuction of belly or thighs, processed and then injected into the affected area. Even though this method has been used since the early 90’s, it is considered "new". Other methods such as Platelet Rich Plasma Injections and Stem Cell Therapy have shown positive results in the treatment of fat pad atrophy. |
Fat Pad Atrophy is the thinning or flattening of the “cushion” or pad that protects the underlying structures of your feet, such as neurovascular tissues, sensitive periosteum, ligaments and tendons.
Age: With age, cartilage and fat tissue formation decreases. Studies have shown that by the age of 50’s people have lose half of the fat pad.
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