What does a podiatrist treat?

Podiatrists specialize in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They diagnose and treat heel pain, bunions and hammertoes, tendon injuries, nerve conditions (Morton's neuroma, neuropathy), toenail disorders, skin conditions (warts, calluses, ulcers), fractures, sports injuries, diabetic foot complications, ankle instability, and perform foot and ankle surgery. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM AACFAS serve Howell, Bloomfield Hills, and surrounding Michigan communities.

How often should a healthy person see a podiatrist?

Annual foot exams are beneficial if you are over 60, are an active runner or athlete, have diabetes, have a family history of foot problems, or notice any changes in foot shape, nail appearance, or skin texture. Preventive visits catch problems early — before bunions require surgery or a small nail issue becomes an infection.

Can foot problems cause knee, hip, or back pain?

Yes — the foot is the foundation of the kinetic chain. Overpronation causes the tibia to internally rotate, increasing stress on the knee and altering hip alignment. High arches transmit shock poorly, overloading the ankle and knee. Custom orthotics that correct foot mechanics frequently improve knee, hip, and back symptoms — one of the most underappreciated benefits of podiatric care.

When should I see a podiatrist versus an orthopedic surgeon?

Podiatrists specialize exclusively in the foot, ankle, and lower leg — making them the most experienced providers for most foot and ankle conditions. For foot and ankle surgery, a DPM with high case volume is appropriate. Dr. Tom Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle procedures. Call (810) 206-1402.

Board Certified Podiatrists | Expert Foot & Ankle Care

(810) 206-1402 Patient Portal

Best Running Shoes for Bad Back Sufferers

best-running-shoes-bad-back - Balance Foot & Ankle Michigan

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS

Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon · 3,000+ surgeries · @MichiganFootDoctors (950K+ subscribers)

Last reviewed May 11, 2026 · (810) 206-1402

Best Running Shoes for Bad Back Sufferers

Quick answer: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM ranks bad back shoes based on cushioning, stability, and durability.

Watch: Finding the right orthotics & shoes

What Matters Most

Higher cushion stack, supportive midsole, durable outsole, and proper width fitting are critical.

Top Picks

Hoka Bondi, Brooks Glycerin, ASICS Gel-Nimbus, NB 1080, Saucony Triumph all excel for these needs.

Schedule

Call (810) 206-1402.

AAOS: Footwear & Running with Low Back Pain

⚕ Doctor Recommended

CURREX RunPro Insoles

Biomechanical insoles for runners & athletes

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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.

Our Podiatry Services Locations in Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell, MI

4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843

810-206-1402

Fax: 833-450-6201

Balance Foot & Ankle, Bloomfield, MI

43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302

810-206-1402

Fax: 833-450-6201

Best Running Shoes for Bad Back Sufferers

What Matters Most

Top Picks

Schedule

Our Podiatry Services Locations in Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle, Bloomfield, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Howell

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Bloomfield Hills