A lesser-known side effect of popular weight-loss medications like Mounjaro and Ozempic, colloquially termed ‘Ozempic feet,’ is emerging, causing discomfort and pain for some users. This condition arises from the rapid loss of fat in the soles of the feet, a consequence of significant weight reduction achieved through GLP-1 medications.
Jatender Chaggar, a senior foot health practitioner at the Foot-Map clinic, has observed a 4% increase in patients experiencing this rapid foot fat loss due to these drugs. He likens the process to an inflatable slowly deflating, leading to increased pressure on the ball and toes of the foot. While there is no definitive evidence that GLP-1 medications directly cause these foot problems, the physical changes associated with substantial weight loss—such as the reduction of natural cushioning fat pads, alterations in muscle mass, gait, and pressure distribution—can contribute to stress and pain in specific foot areas.
This loss of padding can be further exacerbated by hormonal changes during menopause and the natural decrease in collagen that occurs with aging. Margaret Dabbs, a leading podiatrist and brand founder, notes that foot fat pads can migrate and become thinner over time, a process potentially accelerated by GLP-1 medications which may further reduce soft tissue support. This natural cushioning is crucial for absorbing impact and supporting the foot structure during walking.
"Ozempic feet" can lead to various painful conditions, including metatarsalgia, characterized by a burning or tingling sensation on the ball of the foot, and plantar fasciitis, a stabbing pain on the bottom of the heel. These issues can be particularly pronounced when wearing high heels or walking on hard surfaces. Dabbs advises that for heel or metatarsal pain, a podiatrist appointment for a full diagnostic assessment is the recommended first step.
To address the discomfort, experts suggest several approaches. Custom-made shoe inserts, known as orthotics, can provide essential support and shock absorption. For those experiencing a significant loss of cushioning, dermal fillers can be used to restore volume in the heel and ball of the foot, improving shock absorption. This procedure, sometimes called a ‘Loub Job,’ can last from six to twelve months, requiring maintenance treatments. However, practitioners emphasize that fillers must be administered conservatively by injectors with strong anatomical knowledge to avoid risks to blood vessels and other structures.
Maintaining a stable weight and wearing supportive footwear remain crucial, as volume loss treatments do not address the underlying cause. Chaggar recommends athletic shoes such as Asics Metaspeed or Asics Kayano for their supportive qualities.
Regular foot exercises can also help alleviate pain and stiffness. These exercises, performed twice daily, aim to improve circulation, flexibility, and strength. Recommended exercises include toe raises, toe curls, ankle circles, heel-to-toe walking, resistance band exercises for plantar and dorsiflexion, and calf stretches.
Proper foot care also includes using moisturizing foot creams to keep the skin supple and aid circulation. Additionally, switching to seamless, moisture-wicking socks can reduce friction and prevent hypersensitivity of the nerves on the top of the foot, which can be triggered by fabric rubbing against the skin.