It seems like everyone who has lost a lot of weight these days owes their transformation to Ozempic or other semaglutide medications. But, as the nation embraces this weight loss, more and more people are dealing with unexpected side effects like sagging skin on your face or a drooping, flat rear end. Recently, a new effect of GLP-1 medications is getting some buzz—everyone is talking about Ozempic feet. So, what is this condition, is it preventable, and what can you do if you’ve already experienced changes? Here’s what you need to know.
What are Ozempic Feet?
If someone says you have Ozempic feet, that means rapid weight loss has affected fat deposits all over your body, including on your feet. And, as the fat pads on your heels and in the balls of your feet have shrunk quickly, the skin on your feet may not have had time to adjust. As such, it can appear to hang off your feet bones. Additionally, the veins in your feet may become more prominent.
Does Taking Ozempic Cause Foot Problems? ![semaglutide injections]()
While some side effects of GLP-1 medications could be problematic for your health, Ozempic feet aren’t dangerous. In fact, if you are currently overweight, dropping pounds could help relieve existing problems by taking pressure off your feet. Still, indirectly, losing your feet’s natural fat pads could contribute to painful problems later on.
You see, those natural fat deposits are located in high pressure areas—the heels and balls of your feet—where your body absorbs the impact of standing, walking, running and jumping. So, without the protection of your body’s own shock-absorption system, the muscles, tendons and bones in your feet could take a beating. For that reason, people with Ozempic feet are more likely to develop corns and calluses. Plus, you may be more likely to experience foot pain. So, for that reason, we want to help you protect your feet’s natural padding, while allowing you to remain on your prescribed weight loss medications.
Can You Prevent Ozempic Feet?
Fat loss is an almost inevitable result of taking semaglutide medications. However, sagging skin on your face and feet does not need to go along with that loss of fat. But if you want to protect yourself from unsightly Ozempic feet, you will have to put a bit more effort into your diet and exercise routine.
Now, focusing on nutrition is important for anyone taking GLP-1 medication, even if you aren’t worried about your skin’s elasticity. You see, this class of medication often surpresses appetite, meaning you eat a lot less than you used to throughout the day. Of course, that helps with your weight loss journey. But it also means that you have fewer opportunities to get vital nutrients into your body. For that reason, you should be mindful about every meal you consume. And, if one of your goals is to support skin firming, be sure to consume lean protein at every meal. Each day, you should eat 1 gram of protein for every kilogram of your body weight. (That’s about 8 ounces each day for someone who weighs 220 pounds. So if you can’t hit this goal with diet alone, you may wish to discuss protein supplements with your healthcare provider.)
This added protein will help support muscle strength and skin elasticity. But diet alone may not be enough to prevent Ozempic feet. So, to that end, we suggest adding strength and resistance training to your routine. But, if you still experience the loss of your feet’s natural padding, we can help support them so you don’t wind up with foot pain or other concerns.
Preventing Foot Pain after Weight Loss
We want you to be able to enjoy your weight loss without dealing with foot pain. In fact, we hope that your feet will feel better after you lose some weight, since doing so reduces your risk for conditions such as planta fasciitis, bunions and even arthritis. Still, if you notice changes in your feet while taking semaglutide medication, contact our Medford, Oregon podiatrists right away. By taking quick action, we can protect your feet from further complications.
Treating Ozempic Feet in Southern Oregon
As podiatrists in Southern Oregon, also helping patients in Northern California, we have seen first-hand how weight loss medications can positively impact your life. But we also know that they must be managed carefully to avoid unwanted complications. To that end, Dr. Evan Merrill, Dr. Devin Dimond and Dr. Chase Christensen are here to help protect you from Ozempic feet and any other foot concern that pops up along your weight loss journey. Simply call our office at 541-776-3338 or click this link to request an appointment. From soft gel pads to custom orthotics and more, we have the solutions you need to keep you walking comfortably!