Is fat pad atrophy caused with repeated cortisone injections to the same spot in the foot?
Answer Hi Randy, Fat pad atrophy of the foot can occur with injections to the same general area. So if you get injections in several spaces between the metatarsal bones, the cortisone actually spreads across the fat pad to some degree and can have a cumulative effect. There really is no barrier to stop the spread. Some people naturally have a thin fat pad and some lose fat padding with age. Generally I would avoid many injections in the same general area. There is a rule of not giving more than 3 injections in a 6 month to one year period in one area. However, this rule really depends on the amount and type of cortisone being used. It also really depends on the area and condition. I can tell you that some Drs will not hesitate to inject multiple areas that are painful on a weekly basis. Be careful of this practice. Hope that helps. Sincerely, Marc Katz, DPM Tampa, FL Advanced Podiatry www.thetampapodiatrist.com www.tampacryosurgery.com DISCLAIMER: This information is offered as free ad
