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Dr. Tom’s Top Pain Relief Picks — Dr. Hoy’s (2026)
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. I personally use Dr. Hoy’s in my practice for patients who need topical relief.
| Product | Best For | Dr. Tom’s Take | Get It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel 3.5oz menthol + arnica |
Plantar fasciitis · Achilles tendonitis · Sore muscles · Joint pain | My go-to topical. Cooling-then-warming sensation. No greasy residue. Non-NSAID alternative. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Arnica Boost 8oz with extra arnica |
Bruising · Post-injury · Sprains · Stress fractures (pain only) | Higher arnica concentration speeds recovery from acute injury. Use 4x daily for first 7 days. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Cooling Pain Relief 8oz extra menthol |
Acute inflammation · Hot/swollen feet · Post-run cooldown | Stronger cooling effect for acute swelling. Pair with ice for first 48 hours after injury. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Roll-On Pain Relief Roller applicator |
Mess-free application · Travel · Office use · No-touch hygiene | My patients love this for travel. Glides on without hand contact — cleanest application available. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Family Size 14oz pump bottle |
Frequent users · Multiple family members · Best value per ounce | If anyone in your home uses pain cream regularly, this is the most economical size. Same formula. | Buy Now |
Why I recommend Dr. Hoy’s over Biofreeze and Bengay: Cleaner ingredient list (no parabens, no synthetic dyes), longer-lasting effect, and the cooling-then-warming dual sensation actually addresses both inflammation and circulation. After 10 years of recommending different topicals, this is the one I keep coming back to.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
Quick Answer
Ankle Pain While Running: Common Causes and How to Fix Them 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 Twp: (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon, 3,000+ surgeries performed. Updated April 2026 with current clinical evidence. This article reflects real practice experience from Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Quick Answer
Most foot and ankle problems respond to conservative care — proper footwear, supportive inserts, activity modification, and targeted stretching — within 4-8 weeks. Persistent pain beyond that window, or any symptom that prevents walking, warrants a podiatric evaluation to rule out fracture, tendon tear, or systemic cause.
Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
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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See Dr. Tom’s Top Shoe Picks →Why Ankle Pain Is Different for Runners
Ankle pain during running is a common complaint with multiple potential causes, each requiring a different treatment approach. Unlike pain from a sudden sprain, running-related ankle pain is typically overuse in origin—developing gradually from repetitive stress of hundreds of foot strikes per mile. The ankle joint and surrounding structures bear impact loads of 3-5 times body weight with each stride, and at training volumes of 20-50 miles per week, even minor biomechanical inefficiencies create significant cumulative tissue stress. Identifying the specific structure causing pain is essential before treatment can be effective.
Peroneal Tendinopathy
The peroneal tendons run behind the outer ankle bone and are among the most commonly injured ankle structures in runners. Peroneal tendinopathy produces pain along the outer ankle from the tip of the fibula toward the fifth metatarsal base, worse with running on cambered or banked surfaces that increase ankle inversion load. Trail runners and those with high arches are at highest risk. Treatment: eccentric peroneal strengthening, rigid ankle taping or bracing during running, footwear assessment, and load management. Peroneal tendon tears may require MRI and surgical consultation.
Anterior Ankle Impingement
Anterior ankle impingement produces front-of-ankle pain that increases with uphill running and activities requiring ankle dorsiflexion. It results from soft tissue or bone spurs being pinched at the joint during dorsiflexion. Heel lift inserts reduce impingement by limiting full dorsiflexion. Soft tissue impingement responds to cortisone injection; bony impingement (spurs) may require arthroscopic removal. Trail runners and soccer players are disproportionately affected from repetitive dorsiflexion loading.
Chronic Ankle Instability
Runners with a history of ankle sprains who did not complete rehabilitation may develop chronic ankle instability—persistent ligamentous laxity causing a sense of giving way, repeated ankle sprains, and ankle pain on uneven terrain. For specialized treatment, see our ankle sprain care Howell MI. The peroneal muscles become reflexively inhibited following multiple sprains, reducing dynamic stability. Treatment: comprehensive peroneal strengthening, balance and proprioception training, ankle bracing for high-risk activities, and lateral ankle ligament reconstruction for significant persistent instability.
Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy
Posterior tibial tendinopathy produces medial (inner) ankle pain behind the medial malleolus, worsening with running. The posterior tibial tendon is the primary dynamic support of the arch; its failure leads to progressive flatfoot deformity. Flat-footed runners are at highest risk. Examination shows tenderness along the tendon and pain with resisted ankle inversion. Treatment: custom orthotics with medial arch support, ankle bracing, posterior tibial strengthening, and load management. Progressive disease may require surgical tendon reconstruction.
More Podiatrist-Recommended Sports Essentials
Athletic Kinesiology Tape
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Athletic Performance Insole
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Shock absorption + arch support for running, basketball, tennis.
Ankle Stabilizer Brace
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Prevents re-injury in athletes returning from ankle sprain.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on clinical experience; prices and availability shown above update live from Amazon.
When to See a Podiatrist
Athletic injuries heal faster with sport-specific rehab protocols — not generic rest and ice. Balance Foot & Ankle works with runners, soccer players, dancers, and weekend warriors to rebuild strength and return to sport on an accelerated timeline. Don’t let a foot injury keep you sidelined longer than necessary.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I run through ankle pain?
Light ankle discomfort that resolves after warming up may be manageable with gradual modification. However, ankle pain that worsens as the run continues, causes a limp, alters running mechanics, or does not return to baseline within 24 hours after running warrants a training break and evaluation. Running through significant ankle pain risks converting an overuse injury into an acute tendon rupture or stress fracture. When in doubt, cross-train (cycling, swimming) for 1-2 weeks while seeking evaluation—you preserve fitness without stressing the injured structure.
When does ankle pain in a runner need imaging?
X-rays are indicated when fracture is suspected (sudden onset with inability to bear weight, or bony tenderness on the malleoli or fifth metatarsal base per Ottawa Ankle Rules). MRI is the most useful imaging for soft tissue ankle pathology in runners—it diagnoses tendon tears, osteochondral lesions, ligament damage, and soft tissue impingement. Ankle pain not improving after 4-6 weeks of appropriate conservative treatment, or presenting with atypical features such as night pain, swelling out of proportion, or mechanical catching, warrants MRI evaluation. Ultrasound is useful for tendon assessment and can be performed dynamically.
Can running shoes cause ankle pain?
Yes—shoe-related factors contribute to many running ankle injuries. Zero-drop or minimal shoes increase peroneal and Achilles tendon load and can cause lateral ankle pain in runners who transition too quickly from standard shoes. Worn-out shoes with collapsed midsoles lose their cushioning and motion control, increasing ankle joint impact stress. High-heeled running shoes can restrict dorsiflexion and contribute to anterior impingement. Shoes too narrow in the heel can cause posterior ankle irritation. A running shoe assessment—ideally at a specialty running store with gait analysis—can identify whether footwear is contributing to ankle symptoms, and a podiatrist can recommend shoe characteristics or orthotic modifications targeting your specific foot mechanics.
Medical References & Sources
- PubMed Research — Ankle Overuse Injuries in Runners
- PubMed Research — Peroneal Tendinopathy in Runners
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Peroneal Tendon Injuries
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatric surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He evaluates and treats all causes of ankle pain in runners including peroneal tendinopathy, impingement, instability, and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for Ankle Pain & Injuries
📍 Located in Michigan?
Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
These are products I personally use and recommend to my patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
- ASO Ankle Stabilizing Orthosis — Figure-8 straps with bilateral stability columns — the gold standard lace-up ankle brace for return to sport
- McDavid 195 Ankle Brace — Hinged design allows dorsiflexion/plantarflexion while blocking inversion — best for chronic lateral instability
- Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel 3oz — Menthol-based cryotherapy — penetrates soft tissue to reduce ankle sprain inflammation and acute pain
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Insoles
PowerStep is the brand I prescribe most — medical-grade OTC support without the custom orthotic price tag.
- PowerStep Pulse Insoles — Performance insoles for runners — flexible arch support with shock absorption for high-mileage athletes.
- PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — The #1 podiatrist-recommended OTC insole — firm arch support with dual-layer cushioning for all-day wear.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended: Natural Topical Pain Relief
This is what I actually use in our clinic at Balance Foot & Ankle.
- Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula. Apply directly to the painful area 3-4x daily for fast-acting relief without NSAIDs.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
👟 Dr. Tom’s Pick: FLAT SOCKS for Minimalist & Zero-Drop Shoes
Ultra-thin flat-knit socks designed specifically for zero-drop, barefoot, and minimalist shoes. No bunching, no seams — just foot-contact-the-ground feel with moisture control.
View FLAT SOCKS on Amazon →
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases.
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Ready to Get Expert Foot Care?
Dr. Biernacki and our team at Balance Foot & Ankle are accepting new patients in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, MI. Most insurances accepted.
or call (810) 206-1402
Top-Rated Ankle Braces
- Aircast Air-Stirrup — Gold Standard Ankle Brace
- Zamst A2-DX — Maximum Support for Athletes
- McDavid Lace-Up Ankle Brace — Everyday Stability
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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
3980 E Grand River Ave, Suite 140
Howell, MI 48843
Get Directions →
Bloomfield Hills Office
43700 Woodward Ave, Suite 207
Bloomfield Hills, 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 AppointmentIn-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home care isn’t resolving your ankle pain, a visit with a board-certified podiatrist is the fastest path to accurate diagnosis and a personalized plan. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin offer same-day and next-day appointments at both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices. We perform on-site diagnostic ultrasound, digital X-ray, conservative care, advanced regenerative treatments, and minimally invasive surgery when indicated.
Call (810) 206-1402 or request an appointment online. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare.
Most Common Mistake We See
The most common mistake we see is: Waiting too long before seeking care. Fix: any foot pain lasting more than 4 weeks, or any sudden severe symptom, deserves a professional evaluation rather than more rest.
Warning Signs That Need Same-Day Care
Seek immediate evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle if you experience any of the following:
- Unable to bear weight
- Severe swelling with skin colour change
- Fever with foot pain (possible infection)
- Diabetes plus any new foot symptom
Call (810) 206-1402 — same-day and next-day appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.
Pros & 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.
Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
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 Twp, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.
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