Glucagon-like peptide-1 GLP (“GLP-1”) medications, also known as ‘Weight loss injections’ have increased in popularity recently, and chances are, someone you know is taking them or is interested in starting a course of them. In fact, it is estimated that almost 1.6 million British adults are using GLP-1 medications to support weight loss. [1]
GLP-1- based therapies are well known for helping with weight regulation, managing blood sugar and regulating insulin, but they are also helping many women navigate midlife changes, particularly during the menopausal stage of their lives.
As oestrogen levels naturally decline during menopause, metabolic rate can slow down and visceral fat storage often increases. In this blog we explore how GLP-1 therapies support weight loss, their impact on muscles, joints and musculoskeletal health and importantly, what happens when treatment is discontinued.
The benefits of GLP-1 medications
A significant benefit of these therapies, and indeed, the main reason why more and more people are interested in taking them, is rapid weight loss. Reduced weight loss on the body can positively result in a reduction in mechanical load on the body’s joints, such as the hips and knees, therefore reducing inflammation and pain, and increasing mobility.
Improved energy levels, coupled with reduced pain, enables you to participate in more exercise and activity, thereby reducing the risk of health issues, such as a heart attack or stroke, and lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
How can rapid weight loss impact your musculoskeletal health?
As with any medications, there are possible side effects, which include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as constipation, bloating or nausea.
Furthermore, although a great benefit of GLP-1 therapies is weight loss, one important consideration is that for many, this loss comes from lean muscle reduction, rather than from just fat alone. In addition, GLP-1 therapies slow digestion and increase satiety, meaning chances are you may find it challenging to consume an adequate amount of protein. Protein plays a key role in maintaining muscle mass and strength, and maintains musculoskeletal health. If the body does not receive enough protein, it may break down existing muscle tissue to meet its needs, consequently accelerating muscle loss.
This muscle loss can negatively impact strength, mobility and balance, which already occurs during menopause for many women, where muscle mass naturally declines. Consequently, there is an increased risk of developing sarcopenia (progressive loss of muscle mass, strength and function).
The reduction in oestrogen levels during menopause also contributes to a reduction in bone density for many women, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
A reduction in both muscle mass and bone density can significantly impact musculoskeletal health, giving a higher risk of spinal and pelvic instability, alongside an increased risk of fracture.
What happens when you stop taking GLP-1 medications?
It is estimated that around half of people who take GLP-1 medications discontinue their use within the first 12 months.[2] Weight regain is common and can be rapid with individuals returning to their pre-treatment weight within an average time period of 1.7 years. [3] As this occurs, the increase in body weight can increase joint load, putting more stress on the knees and hips. This change can affect the way you walk, causing compensatory pain in the joints. There may also be balance implications on the body, as it readjusts to changes in weight distribution and stability. These facts may increase or worsen pain, particularly in the knees and hips, highlighting the importance of ongoing musculoskeletal support and monitoring when using GLP-1 therapies.
How can chiropractic care help?
Firstly, it is important to tell your chiropractor if you are taking any GLP-1 therapies, as this will impact your treatment plan and goals, and helps your chiropractor to assess which techniques and modalities are appropriate for you.
Chiropractors can also monitor you whilst taking these therapies, and can support you throughout the course, by using a combination of treatments and modalities to assist with monitoring potential muscle loss and biomechanical changes on the body. These include, but are not limited to:
- chiropractic treatment;
- soft tissue therapy;
- nutritional advice; and
- exercise therapies and rehabilitation programmes.
If you’re using GLP-1 medications, it is beneficial to work collaboratively with your healthcare providers, including your chiropractor, to ensure a more holistic approach to your health and long-term wellbeing.
Nikisha Bains, chiropractor has full registration with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and is a member of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA) and a Licentiate of the Royal College of Chiropractors (LRCC).
Book your consultation with Niki today by calling 01902 964917 or click to learn more about how to schedule your consultation.
References
[1] Jackson, Sarah E et al. “Prevalence of use and interest in using glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for weight loss: a population study in Great Britain.” BMC medicine vol. 24,1 1. 8 Jan. 2026, doi:10.1186/s12916-025-04528-7
[2] BMJ 2026;392:e085304 (https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2025-085304)
[3] BMJ 2026;392:e085304 (https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2025-085304)
