fig1

Figure 1. (A) The specialized fat of the weight-bearing skin is compartmentalized by thick fibrous septae that have increased collagen and elastin to dissipate the pressures of locomotion; (B) Cross section of the calcaneus demonstrating the superficial layer of the fat pad with the microchambers that have minimal deformation under loading conditions. Also present is the macrochamber, which can undergo significant deformation.