Quick answer: Ankle Fusion Michigan is a common foot/ankle topic that affects many patients. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills practices. Call (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
The most important clinical decision with Ankle Fusion Michigan isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Related Conditions
Quick Answer
Ankle Fusion Surgery 2026: Michigan Podiatrist Guide DPM relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Hills: (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI. Last updated April 2026.
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Ankle Fusion Surgery Michigan
Ankle fusion (tibiotalar arthrodesis) is a surgical procedure that eliminates the arthritic ankle joint by fusing the tibia (shin bone) and talus (ankle bone) into a single, rigid, pain-free unit. It is the most reliable and durable treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis. Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM at Balance Foot & Ankle performs ankle fusion surgery in Michigan at our Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Hills locations, helping patients regain a functional, pain-free lifestyle.
When Is Ankle Fusion Recommended?
Ankle fusion is indicated for end-stage ankle arthritis that has failed all non-surgical treatments — including bracing, injections, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification. It is recommended for patients with severe pain on weight-bearing, significant joint space narrowing or obliteration on X-ray, and substantially impaired function. Compared to total ankle replacement, fusion is preferred for patients with severe deformity, prior infection, inadequate bone stock, very high activity demands, or young patients where longevity of implant is a concern.
Technique
Modern ankle fusion is performed arthroscopically (minimally invasive) or through a small open anterior or lateral approach, depending on the degree of deformity and bone quality. The articular cartilage is removed from the tibial and talar surfaces, and the foot is positioned in optimal alignment (slight dorsiflexion, neutral rotation). Three large cannulated screws cross the joint from various angles, providing rigid compression fixation. Dr. Biernacki uses fluoroscopic guidance throughout to confirm alignment and hardware position.
Arthroscopic vs. Open Ankle Fusion
Arthroscopic ankle fusion uses two small portals (5mm) to prepare the joint and place screws percutaneously. Benefits include less soft tissue disruption, faster healing, lower wound complication risk, and equivalent fusion rates to open surgery. Ideal for patients with minimal deformity and adequate bone quality.
Open ankle fusion provides direct visualization and allows correction of significant deformity, bone grafting for large defects, and the use of supplemental fixation (plate) when needed for revision cases or poor bone quality.
Recovery
- 0–2 weeks: Non-weight-bearing splint
- 2–6 weeks: Non-weight-bearing cast
- 6–10 weeks: Progressive weight-bearing in a CAM boot as fusion consolidates on X-ray
- 3–4 months: Transition to regular supportive footwear with an ankle-foot orthosis or stiff-soled shoe
- 4–6 months: Return to full daily activities; low-impact sports
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When to See a Podiatrist
Foot and ankle surgery in 2026 is dramatically different than a decade ago — most procedures are now minimally-invasive, outpatient, and allow weight-bearing within days. Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot/ankle surgeries with modern techniques. If another surgeon has recommended a traditional open procedure, a second opinion may reveal a faster, less-invasive option.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be able to walk normally after ankle fusion?
Most patients walk normally on flat ground after ankle fusion. The subtalar and midtarsal joints provide some compensatory up-down motion. Walking, hiking, and golf are typically achievable. Running is possible for some patients. Stiff-soled rocker-bottom shoes improve gait quality after fusion.
What happens if ankle fusion fails (non-union)?
Non-union (failure of the bones to fuse) occurs in approximately 5–10% of ankle fusions. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, poor bone quality, and severe deformity. Treatment of non-union involves revision surgery with bone grafting and additional fixation. Smoking cessation before and after surgery dramatically reduces non-union risk.
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Schedule your ankle fusion consultation at Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell, Brighton, or Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Dr. Biernacki will evaluate whether fusion, total ankle replacement, or other treatment is best for your ankle arthritis.
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Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists
Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Hills Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
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Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your AppointmentPros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Conservative care first
- ✓ Same-week appointments
- ✓ Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
- ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
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Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Hills. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
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About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
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What is Foot pain?
Foot pain is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.
Symptoms and warning signs
Common signs of foot pain include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.
Conservative treatment options
Most cases of foot pain respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.
Recovery timeline and prevention
Recovery from foot pain varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.
Ready to feel better?
Same-week appointments available in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Book Your VisitOur podiatrists treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom. Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan offices.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot and ankle injuries, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.
Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402
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