✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Watch How Custom Braces
— Help Seniors Walk Safely and Comfortably
Falls and foot instability are a serious concern for seniors.
In this video, our podiatrists explain how custom braces can reduce pain, improve balance, and help you maintain independence.
A Simple Video Guide to Foot Braces for Seniors
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(810) 206-1402
Is Foot or Ankle Pain Affecting Your Daily Life?
Foot and ankle instability can limit walking, standing, or even everyday activities. Seniors often notice these common signs:
Common Concerns Include:
- Difficulty walking without support
- Pain or discomfort in the ankle or foot
- Fear of falling or losing balance
- Fatigue after short walks
- Previous braces or supports that didn’t help
Why Do Seniors Need Custom Bracing?
As we age, muscle weakness, arthritis, and previous injuries can make our feet and ankles less stable. Custom braces are designed to provide targeted support, correct alignment, reduce strain, and prevent falls—all while allowing safe, comfortable movement.
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Is a Custom Brace Right for You?
Braces are recommended when standard supports aren’t enough to reduce pain or improve stability. Seniors benefit most when braces are fitted by a podiatrist to match their foot shape, condition, and mobility goals.
Signs a brace may help:
- Frequent imbalance or wobbling
- Persistent ankle or foot pain
- History of falls or near-falls
- Arthritis, tendon weakness, or post-injury support
Schedule a Foot Bracing
(810) 206-1402
How We Fit Braces Safely and Comfortably for Seniors
- Personalized fitting for each foot and ankle
- Comfortable padding to reduce pressure
- Adjustable and removable designs for daily use
- Works in combination with custom orthotics
- Focus on pain relief, stability, and mobility
What to Expect When Using a Custom Brace
- Gradual adjustment period to get used to the brace
- Easier walking, standing, and balance over time
- Reduced risk of falls and foot strain
- Follow-up visits to ensure proper fit and comfort
Local Custom Bracing Specialists Near You
Our clinic offers custom foot and ankle bracing close to home, designed to improve stability, reduce pain, and support safe movement. With expert podiatric evaluation and accessible locations, we make it easy to get personalized bracing solutions that protect your joints and help you stay active.
- Easy Parking
- Accessible Office
- Patient-focused Environment
Why Patients Trust Us For Custom Bracing
- Board-certified foot & ankle specialists
- Extensive experience caring for senior patients
- Gentle, safe treatment approaches
- Focus on comfort, mobility, and nail health
- Trusted by local patients and caregivers
Our board-certified podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle care.
Michigan Foot and Ankle Bracing Trusted Podiatrist
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive foot and ankle care for patients in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term mobility.
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Dr. Carl Jay,
DPM
Dr. Jay delivers trusted general podiatric care, helping patients manage foot and ankle pain, injuries, and chronic conditions with personalized treatment plans.
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Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM
Dr. Gutkin offers attentive foot and ankle care for a wide range of conditions, emphasizing preventive care and patient education to support healthy, active lifestyles.
Book NowSupport Your Feet with Custom Orthotics and Braces
Custom bracing works best with supportive footwear and orthotics. Together, they help reduce pressure, improve walking mechanics, and protect feet from pain or injury.
Benefits for Seniors
- Reduce pressure on painful areas
- Improve walking stability and balance
- Support recovery from foot or ankle injuries
- Prevent pain from recurring
Our priority is safe walking, nail protection, and effective healing.
Order a Custom Orthotic Now
(810) 206-1402
Who Benefits Most from Custom Orthotics
- Seniors with foot or ankle pain
- Individuals with balance or stability issues
- Those recovering from foot injuries or surgery
- People with chronic conditions like arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or diabetes
- Anyone needing long-term support for walking or standing comfortably
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.”
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)
Diabetic Foot Care & Screening
Arthritic Foot & Ankle Pain Management
Fall Prevention & Gait Analysis
Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis Relief
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
Freqently Asked Questions
Do you offer braces for all ages?
Yes, we provide custom braces for children, adults, and seniors.
Are braces uncomfortable?No, they are designed to fit your foot perfectly for comfort and effectiveness.
How long do I need to wear a brace?It depends on your condition; many patients experience significant relief within weeks.
Will a brace prevent surgery?In many cases, yes—bracing and therapy can prevent the need for surgical intervention.
Can I wear braces during sports or work?Absolutely—braces can be customized for your activity level and footwear.
Get Relief, Improve Balance, Stay Mobile — Starting Today
Board-Certified
Medicare Accepted
Senior-Friendly Care
10,000+ Michigan Patients Helped
Ready to Improve Your Balance and Reduce Foot Pain?
Our podiatrists will evaluate your feet and ankles, explain your options, and help you choose the right custom brace for your lifestyle.
Schedule a Consultation(810) 206-1402
Medical References & Sources
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions
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Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
Need Ankle or Foot Bracing Support?
Our podiatrists prescribe and fit custom braces and AFOs designed to stabilize joints, prevent falls, and improve mobility for seniors with weakened ankles or foot drop.
Clinical References
- Nolan KJ, Yarossi M. Preservation of the first rocker is related to increases in gait speed in individuals with hemiplegia and AFO. Clinical Biomechanics. 2011;26(6):655-660.
- Hijmans JM, Geertzen JH, Dijkstra PU, Postema K. A systematic review of the effects of shoes and other ankle or foot appliances on balance in older people and people with peripheral nervous system disorders. Gait & Posture. 2007;25(2):316-323.
- Desmyttere G, Hajizadeh M, Bleau J, Bhatt T. Effect of ankle-foot orthoses on gait, balance and falls in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Rehabilitation. 2023;37(9):1163-1175.
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
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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.
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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.