Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI
Last reviewed: May 2026
Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-week appointments for urgent foot and ankle conditions across Southeast Michigan — but the most important factor in outcomes isn’t getting seen quickly. Our podiatrists explain what to do in the first 24-48 hours before your appointment that most patients skip entirely. Call (810) 206-1402 — expert podiatric care across Michigan.
Foot pain isn't resolving?
Same-week appointments at Howell & Bloomfield Township
Medically Reviewed | Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that can develop after foot or ankle injury, surgery, or trauma. CRPS causes severe pain disproportionate to the injury, along with swelling, color changes, temperature changes, and loss of function. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki specializes in comprehensive CRPS management to reduce pain and restore function.
Understanding CRPS
CRPS involves abnormal responses of the nervous system following injury, causing severe pain, autonomic dysfunction (swelling, color/temperature changes), and loss of motor function. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent progression and chronicity. The condition is more common in women and can significantly impact quality of life.
Comprehensive CRPS Management
Treatment includes aggressive physical therapy focused on desensitization and movement, pain management with medications, topical treatments, and psychological support. Dr. Biernacki uses MLS laser therapy to reduce inflammation and improve function. Early, intensive intervention gives best outcomes.
Advanced Therapies
Beyond physical therapy and medications, Dr. Biernacki offers MLS laser therapy to stimulate healing, custom orthotics to reduce pain triggers, and protective strategies to prevent worsening. Interdisciplinary care involving pain specialists, physical therapists, and mental health providers improves outcomes.
Long-Term Management
CRPS requires long-term, patient-centered management. Dr. Biernacki works closely with patients and their care team to optimize pain control, restore function, and improve quality of life. Many patients achieve significant improvement with comprehensive, coordinated care.
Dr. Tom's Product Recommendations
TENS Pain Relief Unit
⭐ Highly Rated
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Compression and Cooling Glove
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Compression and cooling glove for CRPS hand and foot symptoms.
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CRPS symptom management
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✅ Pros / Benefits
- Early intervention critical to outcomes
- Comprehensive multi-modal approach effective
- MLS laser reduces inflammation safely
- Psychological support aids recovery
❌ Cons / Risks
- CRPS can be difficult to manage
- Long-term treatment often required
- Outcomes vary by individual
Dr. Tom Biernacki’s Recommendation
CRPS is one of the most challenging conditions I treat because it involves the nervous system in complex ways. But I’ve learned that aggressive early intervention, combined with the patient’s commitment to physical therapy and psychological support, can get people back to reasonable function and pain control.
— Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CRPS type 1 and 2?
Type 1 CRPS occurs without confirmed nerve injury; Type 2 occurs after documented nerve injury. Treatment approaches are similar, but Type 2 may require additional nerve-specific interventions.
Can CRPS be cured?
Complete resolution varies, but most patients achieve significant improvement with aggressive early treatment. Early intervention is critical to prevent progression to chronic, disabling CRPS.
How long does CRPS treatment take?
CRPS typically requires months to years of treatment depending on severity and individual response. Intensive physical therapy combined with pain management and MLS laser offers best outcomes.
What activities should I avoid with CRPS?
Avoid activities that trigger pain or increase swelling. Gentle, consistent activity and physical therapy promote recovery. Dr. Biernacki guides activity progression as healing progresses.
Michigan Foot Pain? See Dr. Biernacki In Person
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Same-week appointments · Howell & Bloomfield Township
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When should I see a doctor?
See a podiatrist if pain persists past 2 weeks, prevents normal activity, or is accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, swelling, numbness, inability to bear weight).
Can I treat this at home?
Mild cases respond to RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation), supportive shoes, and OTC anti-inflammatories. Persistent symptoms need professional evaluation.
How long does it take to heal?
Most soft tissue injuries resolve in 2-6 weeks with appropriate care. Bone injuries take 6-12 weeks. Chronic conditions need longer-term management.
Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Same-Week Appointments Available
Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Township. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, we have same-week appointment availability.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (AAOS OrthoInfo)
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Same-week appointments available in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
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.