Doctors Warn of “Ozempic Feet” Trend
It seems the buzz around GLP-1 medications has made its way down to our feet. Doctors are now alerting patients about something dubbed “Ozempic feet.” This term refers to feet that, well, aren’t looking so glamorous anymore. They might appear bonier, feel uncomfortable, or just not fit in shoes that were comfortable just a few months back.
According to healthcare professionals, this phenomenon isn’t primarily about the drugs themselves, but rather what happens when weight is lost rapidly from a body part that often goes unnoticed. Dr. Claire Morrow, an orthopedic specialist, points out that quick weight loss can lead to noticeable changes in our feet.
Interestingly, these changes aren’t listed as common side effects of Ozempic or Wegovy, but it seems the rapid shedding of pounds leaves feet looking thinner and sagging, which might be surprising for many.
As the use of these diabetes medications surged after the FDA approved Wegovy for long-term weight management back in 2021, a survey showed that about one in eight adults in the U.S. have tried a GLP-1 medication. Morrow has cautioned that when weight drops too quickly, the skin may struggle to keep up, potentially leading to loose or sagging skin on feet.
The tops of the feet can especially showcase these changes, making veins and tendons more prominent. Celebrities are also catching attention for their transformations. For instance, after sharing a photo with her grandson, Sharon Osbourne faced online scrutiny over her feet, which many pointed out had lost their usual firmness following her 42-pound weight loss with Ozempic.
Oprah Winfrey has also been part of the conversation after being spotted walking cautiously at a fashion show, a stark contrast to her previous, more confident stride after losing over 50 pounds on similar medications.
However, what healthcare professionals are really concerned about goes beyond just appearances. Dr. Dana Figura, a foot and ankle surgeon, mentioned that patients using GLP-1 medications reported feeling like they were “walking on pebbles” or experiencing pain in areas where they didn’t have issues before. The lack of cushioning in the feet can lead to discomfort, instability, and even blisters as weight loss alters the natural padding.
A fascinating aspect of this issue includes the potential loss of muscle mass, which can account for a significant portion of weight loss. Studies have shown that 25% to 40% of the weight lost during treatment could be from lean muscle, leaving less support underfoot when walking.
Morrow suggests that individuals who lose more than 15% to 20% of their body weight in a short time frame should be aware of these changes. To mitigate unpleasant side effects, doctors recommend maintaining proper protein intake and engaging in resistance training. It’s also wise to connect with a healthcare provider to ensure any weight loss occurs at a safer pace.
For those experiencing foot changes, Figura advises getting feet re-measured, wearing the right shoe size, and considering additional cushioning to add support. On the upside, Morrow notes that losing weight may actually lessen pressure on the feet and joints, which can decrease risks for common ailments like plantar fasciitis.
