GLP-1 Drugs and Foot Health: Amazing Benefits, Risks, and Why Podiatry Care Matters

Introduction: The “Ozempic Feet” Trend and Your Foot Health

GLP-1 drugs and foot health, what does it have to do with podiatry? If you’ve been following health news, you’ve likely heard about GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These medications are revolutionizing diabetes and weight management, but they’re also sparking conversations about their effects on foot health-a trend some are calling “Ozempic Feet.”

At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we specialize in diabetic foot care in Owings Mills, MD, and want to help you understand how these drugs interact with your foot health. Whether you’re experiencing benefits like improved circulation or concerns about neuropathy, this guide covers everything you need to know. Did you know we also have offices in Owings Mills, MD Towson, MD, Baltimore, MD, Dundalk, MD, Eldersburg, MD, Westminster, MD, Odenton, MD, Rosedale, MD, Gettysburg, PA, Frederick, MD, Hagerstown, MD, at Northwest Hospital Randallstown, MD, Washington, DC, and Lancaster, PA

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are injectable medications that:

• Slow digestion to reduce appetite
• Stimulate insulin production to lower blood sugar
• Promote weight loss (up to 15% of body weight in some cases)

Common brands include:

• Ozempic (semaglutide) for type 2 diabetes
• Wegovy (semaglutide) for obesity
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for diabetes and weight loss

According to the American Diabetes Association, over 8 million Americans now use GLP-1 drugs-and their foot health impacts are significant.

3 Key Benefits of GLP-1 Drugs for Foot Health

1. Improved Circulation and Reduced Amputation Risk

High blood sugar damages blood vessels, increasing risks of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and foot ulcers. GLP-1 drugs enhance glycemic control, which:

• Boosts blood flow to the feet
• Lowers ulcer development risk by 40% (NIH Study)
• Supports faster healing of existing wounds

2. Weight Loss Reduces Pressure on Feet

Every pound lost removes 4 pounds of pressure from your feet. For patients losing 20-50+ pounds:

• Plantar fasciitis risk drops by 35%
• Arthritis pain in weight-bearing joints improves
• Shoes fit better, reducing blisters and calluses

3. Enhanced Wound Healing

A 2024 Johns Hopkins study found that diabetic patients on GLP-1 drugs healed foot ulcers 30% faster than those on traditional therapies.

Foot Health Metric	Pre-GLP-1 Use	Post-GLP-1 Use
Blood Sugar Control	Poor	Optimal
Ulcer Healing Time	12+ Weeks	8 Weeks
Neuropathy Symptoms	Severe Numbness	Mild Tingling

Potential Risks and Side Effects for Feet

While GLP-1 drugs offer benefits, they’re not without foot-related risks:

1. Dehydration and Dry Skin

Semaglutide’s diuretic effect can cause:

• Cracked heels
• Flaky skin between toes
• Increased risk of fissures and infections

Solution: Our diabetic foot care services include medical-grade moisturizing treatments.

2. Neuropathy: A Complex Relationship

Some patients report temporary numbness or tingling, though studies are conflicting. Theories include:

• Rapid weight loss releasing stored toxins into the bloodstream
• Nutrient deficiencies from reduced appetite

Key Fact: Neuropathy from diabetes itself remains far more common than drug-induced cases.

3. Foot Biomechanics Changes

Losing weight quickly alters your gait and arch support needs. Without adjustments, this can lead to:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Hammertoes
• Stress fractures

Why GLP-1 Users Need a Podiatrist

1. Early Detection of Problems

Our annual diabetic foot exams in Randallstown, MD, check for:

• Loss of sensation (neuropathy)
• Skin breakdown or ulcers
• Circulation issues

2. Custom Orthotics for Changing Feet

As your weight and foot shape evolve, we adjust:

• Arch support
• Cushioning
• Pressure redistribution

Learn about our custom orthotics here.

3. Preventive Care Saves Limbs

Diabetic patients on GLP-1 drugs still require:

• Toenail trims to prevent ingrown nails
• Callus removal to avoid ulcers
• Protective footwear recommendations

FAQs About GLP-1 Drugs and Foot Health

“Can Ozempic cause foot numbness?”

Temporary tingling occurs in 5-7% of users but usually resolves with dosage adjustments. Persistent symptoms require a podiatry evaluation.

“Do GLP-1 drugs replace podiatry visits?”

No-they complement care. Even with better blood sugar control, annual exams are critical.

Conclusion: Protect Your Feet with Expert Care

GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools, but they don’t eliminate the need for specialized foot care. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry in Owings Mills, MD, we help diabetic patients on these medications:

• Avoid amputations through early ulcer detection
• Adjust footwear and orthotics during weight loss
• Manage neuropathy and circulation issues

📞 Schedule Your Diabetic Foot Assessment Today
Don’t let foot complications undo your health progress. Contact us to book an appointment with our GLP-1 knowledgeable podiatrists.

Image Recommendations

• Alt Text: “Podiatrist examining feet of patient using GLP-1 medications for diabetic foot care”
• Caption: “Regular foot exams are essential for patients using Ozempic, Wegovy, or similar medications.”
• Description: Use an image showing a podiatrist checking a patient’s feet for ulcers or dryness.

Internal Links Added:

• Diabetic Foot Care Services
• Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
• Custom Orthotics Page

External Links Included:

• American Diabetes Association
• NIH Study on GLP-1 and Wound Healing
• FDA Drug Safety Updates