The performance of large thrust bearings depends on the film profile and the thrust pad distortion. A mathematical model to estimate elastic distortion of a thrust pad on an elastic support by solving Reynolds' and elasticity equations simultaneously is discussed. Unlike a thrust pad which is pivoted, a thrust pad on an elastic support will move under load, with no zero deflection point on the surface. Therefore, it is necessary to differentiate between deflection and distortion. The analysis of a sector pad for an isoviscous lubricant is given. A new approach is used for loading stepwise, to change film profile slowly, to reach the target load through the proposed modified algorithm. Results are compared for cases where film thickness varies only along the direction of flow and where film thickness varies along and across the direction of flow.