What is the fat pad under the foot?

Under the heel and the ball of the foot is tissue that helps absorb pressure. In the case of fat pad loss or fat pad damage, this tissue can become thinner or shift. This can cause you to experience more sensitivity when standing or walking. The terms fat padding and fat pad are often used for the same area. However, not all pain under the forefoot is caused by the fat pad.

Cushioning is different from just a soft shoe

A soft layer can feel pleasant, but the shoe must also stay in place well. Pay attention to sufficient depth and space, especially when using an orthotic. In a too-tight combination, extra material can actually cause pressure. In the store, we compare different shoes and look at how your foot fits in the shoe. Bring the shoes you stand or walk in a lot.

Personal fit at Hafkamp

With a free 3D foot scan, we look at the foot shape as part of shoe advice. We do not assess the fat pad with the scanner. Based on your wishes and possibly advice from your healthcare provider, we discuss the fit and possible support. We sell the black, green and silver FootBalance orthotics. We determine which model is suitable during the fitting; a product color is not a medical indication.

What shoes and orthotics cannot do?

Shoes and our orthotics do not regrow a damaged fat pad. We therefore do not make a promise of recovery. For persistent forefoot or heel pain, seek a medical assessment, especially in case of reduced sensation or a changed foot. If you have diabetes or other conditions for which you receive foot care, follow the advice of your practitioner. We help with suitable shoes within that advice.

Medical background: Foot and ankle complaint: damage to the fat pad. Content checked on October 28, 2026.