Rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications can lead to unexpected changes in the feet, including pain, reduced cushioning and changes in shoe fit.

In Yahoo Health, Rock Positano, DPM, MSc, MPH, Founder and Director of the Non-surgical Foot and Ankle Service and the Heel Pain Center, explained that weight loss can reduce the natural fat padding that protects the heel and ball of the foot from hard surfaces. He noted that the medication itself is not necessarily the cause. Rather, the amount and speed of weight loss can contribute to discomfort.

“The main driver is the speed and amount of weight loss,” Dr. Positano said, adding that he has seen similar foot pain in patients following bariatric surgery.

Dr. Positano also explained that weight loss can change the volume of the foot, causing shoes to become loose, and cautions that increasing exercise too quickly during weight loss may contribute to overuse injuries.

Read the full article at health.yahoo.com.