Learn More About Fat Pad Atrophy

What Is Fat Pad Atrophy?

The ball of your foot—technically referred to as the forefoot—has a natural layer of fat that cushions the bones (metatarsal heads) and protects the area during walking, running, or standing.

Over time or due to various conditions, this fat pad can thin or break down, leading to a condition known as forefoot fat pad atrophy or metatarsal fat pad loss.When this natural padding diminishes, patients often experience direct pressure on the bones and nerves of the forefoot, leading to chronic pain, burning, or bruised sensations.

What is Fat Pad Atrophy? Symptoms Causes Treatment Options Advanced Treatment Consultation

Common Symptoms

Pain or tenderness in the ball of the foot, especially during walking
A burning or tingling sensation near the metatarsal heads
The feeling of walking “on bone” or “on pebbles”
Increased discomfort in thin-soled or high-heeled shoes
Symptoms worsen when barefoot or walking on hard surfaces

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Causes & Risk Factors

Aging – Natural degeneration and thinning of the foot’s cushioning
Repetitive impact – From long-term standing, walking, or high-impact exercise
Footwear – High heels, hard-soled shoes, or shoes lacking forefoot support
High arches or foot deformities – Which increase localized pressure
Medical conditions – Such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or collagen disorders
Prior corticosteroid injections – Which may degrade fat tissue over time

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Diagnosis

Clinical examination – To assess pressure points, gait, and localized tenderness
Ultrasound or MRI – To evaluate the thickness and quality of the plantar fat pad
Diagnostic imaging – To rule out other causes like neuromas or fractures

Conservative Treatment Options

Custom orthotics – With built-in forefoot support or metatarsal pads
Padding or gel inserts – To reduce pressure on the metatarsal
Proper footwear – Shoes with forefoot cushioning and wide toe boxes
Activity modification – Reducing high-impact activities during flare-ups

Advanced Treatment

For patients who don’t find relief with conservative options Leneva® fat pad augmentation is a non-surgical, injectable allograft adipose matrix that helps stimulate your body’s natural fat regeneration at the loss site.

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Book Your Appointment

Dr. Edward Lang brings years of expertise in both traditional foot surgery and advanced regenerative treatments. At New Orleans Podiatry Associates, we combine modern diagnostic tools with proven medical techniques in one convenient location. With same-day appointments and concierge-level care, you’ll have direct access to our team for answers, recovery support, and personalized adjustments along the way.

There’s no need to wait weeks for relief. Whether you call, text, or book online, you can be seen quickly by one of New Orleans’ most trusted foot surgeons and leave your visit with a clear plan for feeling better, starting today.

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