Move without pain
Book an assessment todayA deep, bruise-like ache in the centre of the heel — often from the natural fat pad thinning with age or bruising from impact. We protect and offload the heel so you can walk comfortably again.
Where a bruised heel is felt
Centre, under the heel. A deep, bruise-like ache from the fat pad thinning with age or bruising from impact.
Does this sound like you?
The bottom of your heel has a built-in cushion — the heel fat pad — that absorbs impact with every step. When that pad is bruised (a heavy landing or standing on something hard) or thins with age (fat pad atrophy), the heel bone loses protection and you feel a deep, central ache.
Unlike plantar fasciitis, which is usually worst first thing in the morning, fat pad pain is typically worse the more you're on your feet, and especially on hard floors or barefoot.
Getting the diagnosis right matters, because the treatment is different — this is about cushioning and offloading, not stretching the fascia.
The right combination of tools for your feet — not a one-size-fits-all protocol.
We confirm it's the fat pad — not the fascia or a stress injury — so you get the right treatment.
Purpose-made cushioning and heel cups replace the padding your heel is missing.
Redistribute pressure away from the sore spot and support the whole foot.
Well-cushioned, supportive footwear for hard floors and long days on your feet.
Simple changes to reduce repeated impact while the heel settles.
A staged plan to get you comfortable and keep the padding protected.
Plantar fasciitis is usually worst with your first steps in the morning. Fat pad pain is deep and central, and typically worse the longer you're on your feet or on hard surfaces.
A one-off bruise often settles with cushioning and reduced impact. Age-related fat pad thinning doesn't reverse, but the right cushioning, orthotics and footwear keep it comfortable long-term.
Well-cushioned, supportive shoes, and avoiding barefoot walking on hard floors. We'll give you specific guidance and can add heel cups or orthotics.
Usually not. We diagnose it clinically, but we'll refer for imaging if we need to rule out a heel stress fracture, which can feel similar.
