AIIMS Reports Rare Case of 'Slimmer's Paralysis'
Losing weight too quickly can have unexpected and severe health consequences. AIIMS Delhi recently reported a rare case of a young physical trainer in his 20s who experienced difficulty lifting the front part of his right foot after shedding 11 kg in just 15 days. This alarming condition, known as ‘slimmer’s paralysis,’ occurs due to the loss of protective fat around a crucial leg nerve, leading to paralysis in the lower limbs.
How Rapid Weight Loss Affects the Body
Dr. Vivek Shankar, an additional professor in the orthopaedics department at AIIMS, explained that extreme weight loss impacts not only the body’s physical structure but also its metabolic system. When weight is lost too rapidly, the body struggles to adapt, increasing the risk of serious complications. One such risk is the loss of protective fat surrounding the peroneal nerve, which controls movement and sensation in the lower leg and foot.
The Case of the Physical Trainer
According to a report published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), the trainer initially gained weight after a professional bodybuilding competition, where he indulged in excessive carbohydrate-rich foods. This sudden weight gain caused swelling in both lower limbs. In response, he attempted an extreme weight loss regimen, shedding 11 kg (13% of his body weight) in just two weeks. Shortly after, he developed a ‘foot drop,’ a condition where he could no longer lift the front part of his right foot.
Diagnosing and Treating the Condition
Medical tests confirmed that the trainer had no infections or metabolic disorders that could explain his symptoms. Doctors concluded that his condition resulted from rapid weight loss. He was treated with physiotherapy, nutritional support, and external biomechanical devices to stabilize his gait and restore proper lower limb function.
Experts Warn Against Extreme Dieting
Dr. Deepak Chaudhary, director and head of arthroscopy and sports medicine at BLK-MAX Hospital, emphasized the dangers of unsustainable weight loss practices. He pointed out that losing weight too quickly can deplete the fat cushion around the knee, making the common peroneal nerve more vulnerable to damage. Although ‘slimmer’s paralysis’ is treatable with early intervention, the case highlights the importance of adopting a scientific and systematic approach to weight loss.
The Right Way to Lose Weight
Health experts strongly advise against drastic weight loss measures influenced by social media trends or unverified sources. Instead, they recommend a gradual and balanced approach that includes:
- A nutritious, well-balanced diet
- A mix of aerobic exercises and strength training
- Consistency and discipline over quick fixes
Conclusion
Losing weight is a long-term journey that requires patience, discipline, and proper guidance. Extreme dieting and rapid weight loss can lead to severe complications, as seen in the AIIMS case. People looking to lose weight should prioritize sustainable methods to protect their overall health and well-being.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
