Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
Relief for Arthritic Foot & Ankle Pain Without Unnecessary Surgery
Expert podiatric care for arthritis-related foot and ankle pain—focused on mobility, comfort, and long-term joint health.
5.0-Star Patient Reviews
Board-Certified Podiatrists
Same-Day Appointments
Most Insurances Accepted
Is Arthritis Making Every Step Painful?
Delayed treatment can lead to serious complications — but early expert care can prevent them.
Common signs you may need care:
- Stiff, aching feet or ankles, especially in the morning
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness around joints
- Pain while walking, standing, or exercising
- Foot deformities affecting mobility
- Pain not relieved by home remedies or medications
Why See a Podiatrist for Arthritis Management?
Foot and ankle joints bear weight constantly, making them prone to pain and arthritis. Podiatrists provide targeted treatments to relieve discomfort, preserve joint function, and improve mobility. Early intervention can slow arthritis progression and prevent deformities. Personalized care plans may include exercises, braces, and custom orthotics to reduce pain and support long-term foot health.
Conditions We Treat
- Osteoarthritis of the foot and ankle
- Rheumatoid arthritis affecting the feet
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Midfoot and toe joint arthritis
- Ankle arthritis
- Arthritis-related foot deformities
Comprehensive Care for Arthritic Feet & Ankles
Comprehensive Evaluation
- Joint assessment, imaging, gait analysis
Conservative Pain Management
- Anti-inflammatory therapy, exercise, and activity modification
Custom Bracing & Orthotics
- Reduce stress on joints, improve alignment, and enhance stability
Surgical Intervention (When Needed)
- Minimally invasive procedures to restore joint function
Our goal is to relieve pain, preserve mobility, and prevent unnecessary surgery whenever possible.
Michigan Foot and Ankle Bracing Trusted Podiatrist
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatrist with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating complex foot and ankle conditions.
Dr. Carl Jay,
DPM
Provides comprehensive foot and ankle care with a strong emphasis on accurate diagnosis and patient education.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM
Is dedicated to patient-centered podiatric care, offering both conservative and advanced treatment options for foot and ankle conditions.
Dr. Nakya Graham, DPM
Supports the clinical team by assisting with non-clinical tasks, patient coordination, and clinic operations.
Why Patients Trust Our Foot & Ankle Specialists
- Board-certified podiatrists with arthritis expertise
- Personalized, conservative-first treatment plans
- Advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques
- Focus on mobility, pain relief, and long-term joint health
- Trusted by local patients and referring physicians
Arthritic Foot & Ankle Specialists Near You
Our clinic provides expert arthritic foot and ankle care close to home, helping reduce pain, improve mobility, and protect joint health. With convenient locations, accessible facilities, and podiatrist-led treatment, we make it easier to stay active and comfortable despite arthritis.
- Easy Parking
- Fully Accessible Facilities
- Patient-friendly Care
Custom Orthotics for Arthritic Foot & Ankle Care
Arthritic foot and ankle joints are under constant stress, which can cause pain, fatigue, and instability. Custom orthotics are medically designed to reduce pressure, improve alignment, and support comfortable walking, helping seniors stay active and safe while protecting arthritic joints. improving foot alignment, and reducing friction, allowing treatments to work more effectively.
Support Every Step. Reduce Joint Pain. Improve Mobility.
Arthritic foot and ankle joints are under constant stress, which can cause pain, fatigue, and instability. Custom orthotics are medically designed to reduce pressure, improve alignment, and support comfortable walking, helping seniors stay active and safe while protecting arthritic joints. improving foot alignment, and reducing friction, allowing treatments to work more effectively.
Why Custom Orthotics Matter for Arthritis Care
- Reduce pain and pressure on arthritic joints
- Improve foot alignment and stability while walking
- Minimize fatigue that worsens discomfort or leads to falls
- Correct gait issues caused by arthritis
- Increase confidence and mobility in daily activities
Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are prescribed based on your unique foot structure, arthritis severity, and walking pattern for maximum effectiveness.
How Our Custom Orthotics Support Arthritic Feet
- Joint Pressure Relief – Targeted support reduces strain on painful areas.
- Improved Stability – Helps maintain balance and prevents missteps.
- Pain & Fatigue Reduction – Minimizes foot fatigue and discomfort during activity.
- Long-Term Joint Protection – Supports daily mobility while preventing further joint damage.
Who Benefits Most from Custom Orthotics
- Seniors with arthritis in the foot or ankle
- Patients with neuropathy or chronic foot pain
- Individuals experiencing instability or risk of falls
- Those seeking long-term relief and safer mobility
Medical Guidance You Can Trust
Custom orthotics are recommended only when clinically appropriate and are integrated into a personalized arthritis care plan.
Our focus is comfort, joint protection, and maintaining independence.
Arthritic Foot & Ankle Management in Howell
& Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Chronic foot and ankle arthritis can make even simple daily activities painful and exhausting. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, we provide comprehensive arthritic foot and ankle management focused on reducing pain, improving joint function, and restoring mobility. Whether your arthritis is caused by aging, past injuries, or long-standing wear and tear, our podiatry team offers expert, personalized care to help you stay active and comfortable.
We proudly serve patients in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, offering advanced, compassionate care in a medical setting—ideal for seniors, active adults, workers, and patients with chronic joint pain.
What Our Patients Say
Real patients. Real relief. Discover why seniors in Howell and Bloomfield Hills choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist.
“My ulcer pain was terrible every morning. After custom orthotics and therapy, I’m finally walking normally again.”
“I stand all day for work and the pain became unbearable. One visit and a clear treatment plan changed everything.”
“I tried home remedies for foot wound for months with no relief. Dr. Biernacki diagnosed the real issue and now I’m pain-free.”
“As a senior, I was nervous about the pain. The team treated me gently and professionally—my heel feels so much better now.”
When Is Treatment for Foot & Ankle Arthritis Needed?
Foot and ankle arthritis should not be ignored. Early evaluation and treatment can slow progression and prevent long-term joint damage. You may need professional care if you experience:
- Persistent foot or ankle pain
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or cold weather
- Swelling or tenderness around joints
- Reduced range of motion
- Pain that worsens with walking or standing
For patients with advanced arthritis, untreated pain can significantly limit mobility and quality of life.
Our Approach to Arthritic Foot & Ankle Management
We always begin with conservative, non-surgical care, focusing on long-term relief and joint protection. If arthritis progresses despite conservative treatment, we are fully equipped to discuss advanced treatment options.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
- Custom orthotics to reduce joint stress
- Supportive bracing for stability and alignment
- Anti-inflammatory therapies
- Activity modification and footwear guidance
- Physical therapy recommendations
Advanced & Surgical Options (When Necessary)
- Injection therapy for inflammation relief
- Minimally invasive procedures
- Joint-preserving or corrective surgical options
Our goal is pain reduction, improved mobility, and maintaining independence—especially for seniors and patients with chronic arthritis.
Benefits of Professional Arthritis Management
Reduces Chronic Foot and Ankle Pain
Improves Walking Comfort and Stability
Slows Progression of Joint Degeneration
Enhances Balance and Mobility
Helps Patients Remain Active and Independent
Personalized Care for Seniors and High-risk Patients
What to Expect – Before, During & After Treatment
BEFORE
A thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, imaging (if needed), and gait.
DURING
Personalized treatment based on your arthritis severity—often starting with non-invasive solutions.
AFTER
Ongoing management, education, and follow-up care to keep pain controlled and mobility improved. Many patients notice meaningful relief within weeks.
Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell & Bloomfield Hills?
- Board-certified podiatrists with decades of experience
- Specialized care for seniors and chronic joint conditions
- Conservative-first, patient-centered approach
- Modern, clean, and fully equipped facilities
- Convenient locations in Howell and Bloomfield Hills
- Personalized treatment plans focused on long-term comfort
Insurance & Medicare Friendly
Foot and Ankle Care for Every Lifestyle
Serving seniors, workers, and athletes with personalized treatment plans that support mobility, stability, and long-term foot health.
Seniors (Aging Foot Care & Mobility)
Workers (Occupational Foot & Ankle Care)
Ankle Sprain / Instability Treatment
Achilles Tendonitis & Rupture Care
Plantar Fasciitis / Heel Pain Relief
Stress Fracture Evaluation & Treatmen
Custom Athletic Orthotics
Hammertoe / Toe Deformity Correction
Sports-Related Surgery
Foot & Ankle Strengthening & Rehab
Blisters & Skin Protection
Gait Analysis & Performance Assessment
Athletes (Sports Foot & Ankle Care)
Ankle Sprain / Instability Treatment
Achilles Tendonitis & Rupture Care
Plantar Fasciitis / Heel Pain Relief
Stress Fracture Evaluation & Treatment
Custom Athletic Orthotics
Hammertoe / Toe Deformity Correction
Sports-Related Surgery
Foot & Ankle Strengthening & Rehab
Blisters & Skin Protection
Gait Analysis & Performance Assessment
FAQ: Foot Arthritis
Arthritis may result from aging, injury, overuse, genetics, or inflammatory conditions.
Yes. Most patients find relief with orthotics, bracing, and conservative care.
Yes. Cold temperatures often increase joint stiffness and discomfort.
Absolutely. Orthotics reduce joint stress and improve alignment.
If pain is persistent, worsening, or limiting daily activity, it’s time for evaluation.
Take Control of Arthritic Foot & Ankle Pain
Expert care to relieve stiffness, reduce pain, and help you move comfortably again.