Ozempic Feet: The Hidden Foot Health Challenge of Rapid Weight Loss

A podiatrist explains that rapid weight loss from GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic can thin the foot’s fat pads, shrink intrinsic foot muscles, and cause structural changes that make shoes no longer fit, leading to pain, blisters, and ulcers—especially for people with diabetes. Practical steps include re-measuring shoe size, adding cushioning (heel cups, metatarsal pads, cushioned insoles), choosing well-cushioned shoes, strengthening the feet and overall body, moisturizing the skin, and checking feet daily; the weight loss benefits remain, but foot care during the transition is essential.