Quick answer: Best Podiatrist Near Me Michigan is a common foot/ankle topic that affects many patients. The 2026 evidence-based approach combines proper diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills practices. Call (810) 206-1402.
The most important clinical decision with Best Podiatrist Near Me Michigan isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Balance Foot & Ankle: Two Locations Serving Southeast Michigan
Written by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
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Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Published: April 8, 2026
Howell, MI Office (Livingston County)
Our Howell office is conveniently located to serve patients from Howell, Brighton, Hartland, Fenton, Fowlerville, Pinckney, and the surrounding Livingston County communities. We are easily accessible from I-96 and US-23, making us a convenient choice for patients throughout the region.
Bloomfield Hills, MI Office (Oakland County)
Our Bloomfield Hills office serves patients from Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Troy, Royal Oak, Southfield, West Bloomfield, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, and the greater Oakland County area. Located near the intersection of Telegraph and Maple roads, we provide easy access for the metro Detroit region.
Why Patients Choose Balance Foot & Ankle
With over 1,123 five-star reviews and a 4.9 rating, Balance Foot & Ankle has earned a reputation as one of Michigan’s top podiatric practices. Here is what sets us apart from other podiatrists in the area.
Board-certified expertise: Dr. Tom Biernacki has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle surgeries and treats the full spectrum of conditions — from plantar fasciitis and bunions to diabetic foot care and sports injuries. His YouTube channel (@DrTomBiernacki) has over 950,000+ subscribers, making him one of the most recognized podiatrists in the country.
Advanced technology: We invest in the latest treatment technologies including EPAT shockwave therapy, MLS laser therapy, 3D orthotic scanning, in-office digital X-ray, and diagnostic ultrasound. This means faster, more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment options.
Comprehensive care: Whether you need surgical correction, conservative treatment, or preventive care, we offer a complete range of services including toenail fungus laser treatment, ingrown toenail removal, neuropathy treatment, medical pedicures, and senior toenail care.
Insurance accepted: We accept most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Priority Health, HAP, Humana, and more. We also welcome workers’ compensation and auto PIP cases.
Key takeaway: Not sure what is wrong with your feet? That is okay — that is exactly what we are here for. Bring your symptoms and questions, and Dr. Tom will provide a thorough evaluation, clear diagnosis, and plan tailored to your foot type. Read our guide: 10 Signs You Need to See a Podiatrist.
Conditions We Treat
Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert diagnosis and treatment for all foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis and heel spurs, bunions and bunion prevention, diabetic foot care and diabetic neuropathy, ingrown toenails, toenail fungus, ankle sprains and instability, peripheral neuropathy, Achilles tendinitis, flat feet, hammertoes, neuromas, stress fractures, and sports injuries.
What Makes a Podiatrist the “Best”?
When searching for the best podiatrist near you, several factors distinguish truly exceptional practitioners from average ones. Board certification is the baseline — it confirms the podiatrist has completed accredited training and passed rigorous examinations. But beyond credentials, look for specific experience with your condition, access to advanced technology, and a treatment philosophy that prioritizes conservative options before recommending surgery.
Patient reviews provide genuine insight into the experience you can expect. Look for consistent themes in reviews — comments about thorough explanations, compassionate care, minimal wait times, and successful outcomes are strong indicators of quality. A 4.9-star rating from over a thousand reviews, like Balance Foot & Ankle maintains, suggests a pattern of excellence rather than a handful of favorable experiences.
Top Podiatry Services Available in Michigan
The best podiatry practices offer comprehensive services under one roof, minimizing the need for referrals to other specialists. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki provides the full spectrum of foot and ankle care. For heel pain and plantar fasciitis, he uses a combination of custom 3D-printed orthotics, EPAT shockwave therapy, and MLS laser therapy to resolve most cases without surgery.
Surgical services include bunion correction, hammertoe repair, ankle stabilization, and ingrown toenail removal. Specialized care for diabetic foot conditions, peripheral neuropathy, and toenail fungus laser treatment ensures patients with complex medical conditions receive expert-level attention. In-office digital X-ray and diagnostic ultrasound mean most conditions can be diagnosed at your first visit.
Michigan Podiatrist Locations: Howell and Bloomfield Hills
Balance Foot & Ankle serves patients from two convenient Michigan locations. The Howell office serves Livingston County, including Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, and surrounding communities. Located just off I-96, it’s easily accessible from anywhere in the county. The Bloomfield Hills office serves Oakland County patients from Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Royal Oak, Southfield, and the greater Detroit metro area.
Both offices offer same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle problems, and Dr. Biernacki sees patients at both locations throughout the week. If you’re dealing with a sudden injury or a chronic condition that’s been bothering you for months, you can typically get an appointment within 24 to 48 hours.
Insurance Accepted
Finding a great podiatrist who also accepts your insurance is important. Balance Foot & Ankle accepts most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Priority Health, HAP, Humana, Blue Care Network, Medicare Advantage, workers’ compensation, and auto PIP claims. Most insurance plans do not require a referral from your primary care physician to see a podiatrist, so you can book directly.
What to Look for in Online Reviews
Online reviews are one of the most reliable tools for evaluating a podiatrist before your visit. Focus on reviews from the past 12 months for the most current picture of the practice. Pay attention to how the podiatrist handles negative reviews — a professional, empathetic response to complaints shows maturity and commitment to improvement.
Look for reviews from patients with your specific condition. Someone who had successful bunion surgery can speak directly to the surgical skill and post-operative care you’d receive. Reviews that mention the podiatrist’s bedside manner, willingness to explain conditions thoroughly, and respect for the patient’s time provide insight into what your experience will be like. Dr. Biernacki’s YouTube channel (@DrTomBiernacki) with 950,000+ subscribers also provides a preview of his educational approach and personality.
⚠️ Don’t delay seeing a podiatrist if you have:
- Foot or ankle pain that’s lasted more than two weeks
- Difficulty walking or standing due to pain
- Numbness, tingling, or color changes in your feet
- A wound or sore that isn’t healing, especially with diabetes
- A visible deformity like a bunion or hammertoe that’s worsening
More Podiatrist-Recommended Foot Health Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.
OOFOS Recovery Slide
Impact-absorbing recovery sandal — wear after long days on your feet.
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
If foot or ankle pain has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, home care alone may not be enough. Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills clinics — no referral needed in most cases. Bring your current shoes and a short list of symptoms and we’ll build you a treatment plan in one visit.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer same-day appointments?
Yes, we offer same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle conditions at both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills locations. Call our office or book online to check availability.
What areas do you serve?
From our Howell office, we serve Howell, Brighton, Hartland, Fenton, Fowlerville, Pinckney, and Livingston County. From our Bloomfield Hills office, we serve Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Troy, Royal Oak, Southfield, West Bloomfield, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, and Oakland County. Many patients also travel from Ann Arbor, Lansing, and the broader Southeast Michigan region.
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Two convenient Michigan locations | Same-day appointments available
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
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, Suite 208
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
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Same-week appointments available at both locations.
When Shoes Aren’t Enough — Dr. Tom’s Top 9 Orthotics
About 30% of patients I see for foot pain need MORE than a great shoe — they need a structured insole. Below: my complete 2026 orthotic ranking with pros, cons, and the specific patient I’d give each one to.
★ DR. TOM’S COMPLETE 2026 ORTHOTIC RANKING
9 Best Prefab Orthotics by Use Case
PowerStep, Currex, Spenco, Vionic, and Superfeet — every orthotic I’ve fitted to thousands of patients across both Michigan offices. Each card includes pros, cons, and the specific patient I’d give it to. Real Amazon ratings, review counts, and prices below.
Best All-Purpose Orthotic for Most Patients
Semi-rigid arch shell + dual-layer cushion + deep heel cup. The orthotic I’ve fitted to more patients than any other for 15 years. APMA-accepted. Trim-to-fit design works in athletic shoes, casual shoes, and most work boots.
✓ Pros
- Semi-rigid arch shell provides true biomechanical correction
- Deep heel cup centers the heel and reduces lateral instability
- Dual-layer cushion (top + bottom) lasts 9-12 months daily wear
- Available in 8 sizes for precise fit
- APMA-accepted and clinically validated
- Lower price than Superfeet Green for equivalent function
✗ Cons
- Too thick for most dress shoes (use ProTech Slim instead)
- Some break-in period required (3-7 days for arch tolerance)
- Not enough correction for severe pes planus or rigid pes cavus
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: If a patient has run-of-the-mill plantar fasciitis, mild flat feet, or arch fatigue, this is the first orthotic I try. Better value than Superfeet for 90% of patients, which is why I swapped it into our clinic kits three years ago. Sub-$50 typically.
Maximum Motion Control · Flat Feet & Severe Over-Pronation
PowerStep’s most aggressive stability orthotic. Adds a 2°-7° medial heel post on top of the standard PowerStep platform — designed specifically for flat-footed patients and severe pronators who need real corrective force.
✓ Pros
- 2°-7° medial heel post adds aggressive pronation control
- Same trusted PowerStep arch shell, more correction
- Built specifically for flat-foot biomechanics
- Excellent for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
- Removable top cover for cleaning
✗ Cons
- Too aggressive for neutral-arch patients
- Needs longer break-in (10-14 days) due to stronger correction
- Adds 2-3 mm of stack height — won’t fit slim dress shoes
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: When a patient comes in with significant flat feet AND symptoms (heel pain, arch pain, knee pain), the Original PowerStep isn’t aggressive enough. The Maxx is what gets prescribed. About 25% of my flat-footed patients end up here.
Low-Profile · Fits Dress Shoes & Narrow Casuals
3 mm slim profile with podiatrist-designed tri-planar arch technology. Engineered specifically to fit inside dress shoes, oxfords, loafers, and women’s flats without crowding the toe box. Vionic was founded by an Australian podiatrist.
✓ Pros
- 3 mm slim profile (vs 7-10 mm for standard orthotics)
- Tri-planar arch technology adds support without bulk
- Built-in deep heel cup despite slim design
- Fits dress shoes WITHOUT having to remove the factory insole
- Trim-to-fit · APMA-accepted
✗ Cons
- Less arch support than full-volume orthotics
- Top cover wears faster than thicker alternatives
- Not enough correction for severe foot deformities
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: My default when a patient says ‘I need orthotics but I have to wear dress shoes for work.’ Slim enough to fit in oxfords and pumps without the heel sliding out. The single highest-impact change you can make for office workers with foot pain.
Built-In Metatarsal Pad · Morton’s Neuroma · Ball-of-Foot Pain
Standard Pinnacle orthotic with a built-in metatarsal pad positioned proximal to the metatarsal heads — the exact location that offloads neuromas and metatarsalgia. No need for separate met pads or pad placement guesswork.
✓ Pros
- Built-in met pad eliminates DIY pad placement errors
- Specifically designed for Morton’s neuroma + metatarsalgia
- Same trusted PowerStep arch + heel cup platform
- Top cover protects sensitive forefoot skin
- Faster relief than orthotics + add-on met pads
✗ Cons
- Met pad position is fixed (can’t fine-tune individual placement)
- Some patients with very small or very large feet need custom
- Slightly thicker than the standard Pinnacle
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: If a patient has Morton’s neuroma, sesamoiditis, or generalized ball-of-foot pain (metatarsalgia), this saves a clinic visit and a prescription. The built-in pad placement is anatomically correct for 80% of feet. Way better than DIY met pads.
Adaptive Dynamic Arch · Athletic & Daily Wear
Currex’s flagship adaptive arch technology — the orthotic flexes with your gait instead of fighting it. Different stiffness zones along the length give you targeted support at the heel, midfoot, and forefoot. Available in three arch heights (low/medium/high).
✓ Pros
- Dynamic flex zones adapt to natural gait cycle
- Three arch heights ensure precise fit
- Lighter than rigid orthotics (no ‘heavy foot’ feel)
- Excellent for runners and athletic walkers
- European podiatric design (German engineering)
✗ Cons
- More expensive than PowerStep Original ($55-65 typically)
- Less aggressive correction than Pinnacle Maxx for severe cases
- Three arch heights means you must self-select correctly
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: I started recommending Currex three years ago for runners who said PowerStep felt ‘too rigid.’ The dynamic flex zones respect natural gait. Best for active patients who walk 8K+ steps daily and don’t need maximum motion control.
Running-Specific · Heel Strike + Forefoot Strike Compatible
Currex’s purpose-built running orthotic. The midfoot flex zone is positioned for runner’s gait mechanics, with a flared heel cushion for heel strikers and a forefoot rocker for midfoot/forefoot strikers. Tested on 1000+ runners during product development.
✓ Pros
- Designed by German biomechanics lab specifically for runners
- Dynamic arch flexes with running gait (not static like PowerStep)
- Three arch heights (low/medium/high)
- Reduces overuse injury risk in mid-distance runners
- Lightweight (no impact on cadence)
✗ Cons
- Premium price ($60-75)
- Not aggressive enough for severe over-pronators (use Pinnacle Maxx)
- Runner-specific design = less ideal for daily walking shoes
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: If a patient runs 20+ miles per week and has plantar fasciitis or shin splints, this is the orthotic I prescribe. The dynamic flex zones respect running biomechanics in a way that no rigid PowerStep can match. Pricier but worth it for serious runners.
Cavus Foot & High-Arch Patients
Polyurethane base with a deeper heel cup and higher arch profile than PowerStep — built for cavus (high-arched) feet that need maximum cushion and support. The 5-zone cushioning system addresses the unique pressure points of high-arch feet.
✓ Pros
- Deeper heel cup centers the heel for cavus foot stability
- Higher arch profile fills the void under high arches
- 5-zone cushioning addresses cavus foot pressure points
- Polyurethane base lasts 12+ months
- Available in Wide width
✗ Cons
- Too tall/aggressive for normal or low arches
- Won’t fit slim dress shoes
- Pricier than PowerStep Original
- Some patients find the arch height uncomfortable initially
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: Cavus foot patients are often misdiagnosed and given low-arch orthotics — that makes everything worse. Spenco’s Total Support has the arch profile that high-arch feet actually need. About 15% of my patients have cavus feet; this is what they wear.
Cushion Layer · Standing All Day · Gel Pressure Relief
NOT a true biomechanical orthotic — this is a cushion insole. But for patients who want gel pressure relief instead of arch correction (or to add ON TOP of factory insoles in work boots), this is the best gel option on Amazon.
✓ Pros
- Genuine gel cushioning (not foam pretending to be gel)
- Targeted gel waves under heel and ball of foot
- Trim-to-fit · works in most shoe types
- Sub-$15 price (most affordable option in this list)
- Massaging texture is genuinely soothing
✗ Cons
- ZERO arch support — this is cushion only
- Won’t fix plantar fasciitis or flat-foot issues
- Compresses faster than PowerStep (4-6 months)
- Top cover wears through in high-mileage applications
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: I recommend these to patients who tell me ‘I just want my feet to stop hurting at the end of my shift’ and who don’t have a biomechanical issue. Construction workers, factory workers, retail. Pure cushion does the job for them.
Tight-Fitting Shoes · Cycling Shoes · Hockey Skates
Superfeet’s slim version of their famous Green insole. The trademark stabilizer cap is preserved but the overall thickness is reduced — works in cycling shoes, hockey skates, ski boots, and other tight-fitting footwear that the standard Superfeet Green can’t fit into.
✓ Pros
- Stabilizer cap centers the heel (Superfeet’s signature feature)
- Slim profile fits tight athletic footwear
- Lasts 12+ months daily wear
- Excellent for cycling shoes specifically
- Built-in odor-control treatment
✗ Cons
- Premium price ($45-55)
- Less cushion than PowerStep equivalents
- Not as aggressive correction as Pinnacle Maxx for flat feet
- The signature ‘heel cup feel’ takes 1-2 weeks to adapt to
Dr. Tom’s Recommendation: If you’re a cyclist with foot numbness, hot spots, or knee pain — this is the orthotic. The stabilizer cap solves cycling-specific biomechanical issues that no other orthotic addresses. Worth the premium for athletes.
None of these solving your foot pain?
Some patients (about 30%) need custom-molded prescription orthotics. We make 3D-scanned custom orthotics in our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices — specifically built for your foot mechanics.
Schedule a Custom Orthotic Fitting →
FSA/HSA eligible · Most insurance accepted · (810) 206-1402
Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Same-Day Appointments Available
Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Hills. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, we have same-day appointment availability.
Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402
Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel
Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula — apply directly to the area 3–4x daily. ($20–25)
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
American Podiatric Medical Association: Find a Podiatrist
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.
Our podiatrists treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom. Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan offices.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) 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 made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.