What are Ozempic feet? Causes, symptoms and how to manage them

The term "Ozempic feet" refers to a set of symptoms some people experience during rapid weight loss associated with medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro. This article explains what can cause Ozempic feet, the common symptoms to look out for, who is more at risk, and what you can do to prevent and treat them.

“Ozempic feet” is a social media term that refers to foot discomfort or pain experienced by some individuals during rapid weight loss caused by GLP-1 medications like Ozempic. It is not a medical diagnosis, but it describes foot discomfort, pain or changes in foot appearance.

The medication itself does not directly damage the foot tissue, but rapid weight loss can affect the feet in different ways and cause discomfort.

Although “Ozempic feet” is not an official medical diagnosis, there is clinical evidence that rapid and substantial weight loss can be associated with nerve issues affecting the feet, such as polyneuropathy, which can cause weakness, tingling or discomfort.

Clinical reports have described cases of polyneuropathy developing after rapid, significant weight loss, highlighting the importance of losing weight gradually (around 1 to 2lbs per week) and maintaining a well-balanced, nutrient-adequate diet.

Nutrient deficiencies can also contribute to neuropathy. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the feet, speak to a doctor to rule out other causes - including diabetes.

Learn more about side effects of Ozempic.

There are several possible explanations why you might get symptoms associated with Ozempic feet.

Rapid fat loss in the feet

As you lose weight, the natural fat pad under the heel and forefoot thins. This can increase pressure on the bones and joints, causing discomfort or tenderness in the feet.

One study found that even modest weight loss changed how pressure was spread across the soles of the feet. As the natural cushioning under the feet thinned, some areas took more pressure, which may help explain why you might notice new foot discomfort as you lose weight.

Decreased muscle strength

If you lose weight without doing strength training, it can reduce the support your feet get from lower leg and foot muscles. This can affect your stability and lead to increased strain during walking and other activities.

Poor footwear or worn-out shoes

As you lose weight, your foot shape may change, and old, worn-out shoes may no longer fit properly. This can contribute to discomfort if your shoes fail to provide adequate support.

Increased activity levels

Many people increase their activity levels when starting a GLP-1 treatment. However, higher activity levels can put additional strain on feet that are already more sensitive due to fat pad loss.

Certain factors increase your chances of developing Ozempic feet. Risk factors include:

• your foot structure – if you have flat feet or high arches, you may already have issues with pressure distribution which means you are more prone to discomfort as weight loss alters foot mechanics
• pre-existing foot conditions – if you have conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon issues, or metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of your feet), you may experience increased pain with sudden changes in how your feet move and take weight
• your age – as you get older, the natural fat pads in your feet thin, meaning you may be more vulnerable to pressure-related pain

There are certain things you can do to reduce or prevent foot discomfort during weight loss. Strategies you could try include:

• wearing supportive, well-fitted footwear – choose shoes that provide good arch support and adequate cushioning
• replacing worn-out shoes and avoiding thin-soled or unsupportive footwear
• using cushioned insoles or heel pads – gel or foam inserts can help soften impact if the fat pad has thinned
• strengthening lower-leg and foot muscles by doing exercises such as calf raises and towel scrunches to build strength in the feet and lower legs
• aiming for steady, moderate weight loss rather than rapid fat loss

If you’re losing weight very quickly, talk to your prescriber about whether a slightly slower pace might be more suitable for you.

If you're already experiencing symptoms of Ozempic feet, here are some ways to manage and alleviate your discomfort.

In most cases, Ozempic feet are temporary. As your weight stabilises, the fat pads under the feet may partially recover. For most individuals, symptoms improve with supportive footwear, insoles and strengthening exercises. Long-term issues are rare, especially if symptoms are addressed early.

Ozempic feet refers to a set of symptoms related to rapid weight loss from Ozempic or similar medications, which can lead to discomfort in the feet. These symptoms are related to changes in how your feet move and take pressure and fat-pad thinning, rather than direct medication side effects.

Simple preventive measures, such as supportive footwear, strengthening exercises, and gradual activity increases can effectively manage these symptoms. If the symptoms persist or interfere with your daily life, contact the doctor who prescribed your medication.

Polyneuropathy After Rapid and Massive Weight Loss, Journal of Clinical Neurology [accessed 18 December 2025]

Obesity Treatment, NHS England [accessed 18 December 2025]

Effects of weight loss on foot structure and function in obese adults: A pilot randomized controlled trial, Gait & Posture [accessed 18 December 2025]

Neurological complications associated with rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies following GLP-1 agonist use: a case report, Springer Nature [accessed 18 December 2025]