@drkerbel: Ozempic and other GLP-1 medications have completely changed the conversation around weight loss. And for many people, they can also help reduce joint pain and arthritis symptoms, sometimes even delaying or preventing surgery. Less weight on your joints often means less pain. And lowering your body’s overall inflammation can have positive effects on your joints as well. But there’s also a side of this that most people don’t hear about… Rapid weight loss doesn’t just affect fat. It can also lead to loss of muscle and bone — and those matter a lot when it comes to balance, strength, fall risk, and long-term joint health. Some newer studies suggest GLP-1 medications may be associated with: • Loss of muscle mass (especially if protein and strength training aren’t prioritized) • Decreases in bone density • Mixed effects on arthritis progression, depending on the individual So like most things in medicine, this isn’t black and white. Ozempic can be an incredibly helpful tool…but it’s not a free pass. If you’re using Ozempic (especially if you have arthritis or are trying to avoid surgery) there are four things you must do while you take it: 1. Prioritize protein. Rapid weight loss without enough protein increases muscle loss. Muscle is what protects your joints and longevity. If you’re not being intentional about protein, you’re leaving yourself vulnerable. 2. Strength train. Cardio/yoga/pilates is not enough. You HAVE to be doing strength training with weights multiple times a week. Strength training sends the signal to your body to hold onto muscle and bone while the weight comes off. 3. Pay attention to bone health. That means adequate calcium, vitamin D, and load-bearing activity. Keeping hold of your bone density as you age is vitally important to your long term health. 4. Don’t chase the scale at the expense of function. The goal isn’t just weight loss. The goal is moving better, feeling stronger, staying independent, and protecting your joints long-term. Focus on losing the weight slowly, healthily and with your ultimate longevity and health goals in mind. If you’re thinking about Ozempic,or already on it, make sure you’re setting yourself up not just to lose weight, but to stay strong, stable, and healthy for the long run. #ozempic #kneearthritis #jointpain

Dr. Yudi Kerbel, MD

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Monday 12 January 2026 17:35:42 GMT