The heel pad under the heel bone normally acts as one of the body's most effective shock absorbers. When the connective tissue weakens, the fat pad can be pushed outwards and lose its shock-absorbing function, leading to pain and discomfort when under load.
What is a worn out heel cushion?
A worn-out heel cushion, also known as fat pad syndrome, means that the fat pad under the heel loses its ability to absorb shock. The connective tissue segments that hold the fat pad in place are damaged, causing the tissue to be pushed outwards instead of lying protectively under the heel bone. The result is poorer shock absorption and increased load directly on the heel bone.
Symptoms
- Heel pain when walking and putting weight on the heel
- Soreness around the edges of the heel
- Calluses along the outer edge of the heel
- Angular shape on the heel
- The heel cushion feels thin and the heel bone is clearly felt when pressed.
Common causes & risk factors
A worn-out heel cushion is often caused by prolonged stress on hard surfaces, especially in unsuitable shoes. Other common causes include repeated impacts, rapid weight gain, walking barefoot on hard surfaces, or age-related changes in the connective tissue that reduce its elasticity.
When should you seek medical attention?
If you have persistent heel pain that does not improve with weight-bearing and good shoes, you should contact your healthcare provider. The same applies if you experience severe pain when putting weight on your foot or suspect other underlying problems in your foot.
Recommended protection & support
A heel cup is the most effective aid for a flattened heel cushion. It combines shock absorption and stabilization by collecting the fat pad under the heel bone. This reduces the load on the outer edge of the heel and provides more natural shock absorption. Anatomically designed heel cups made of durable and shock-absorbing material can greatly reduce pain, while preventing the fat pad from being pressed outwards. The effect is enhanced when the heel cup is used together with a stable heel cap in the shoe, which provides extra support for the heel pad.
