Diabetic Foot Doctor Near Me

Ready to be seen? Book online, 24/7 — Howell or Bloomfield Township. Choose New patient, then pick any green day on the calendar — openings most weeks. (Closed weekends, so today may show none.)

You are in the right place. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS — board-certified foot & ankle surgeon with 3,000+ surgeries — explains exactly what diabetic foot doctor near me means and what actually works. Call (810) 206-1402 for a same-day appointment at our Howell or Bloomfield Township office.

Quick answer: Diabetic Foot Doctor Near Me affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

Quick Answer

Diabetic Foot Doctor Near Me relates to diabetic foot care — typically caused by reduced circulation + neuropathy. Most patients improve in ongoing daily inspection with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

Video by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Michigan Foot Doctors
Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki explains the topic in detail · Subscribe to Michigan Foot Doctors on YouTube

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

Diabetic Foot Doctor
– Foot Specialists & Diabetic Podiatrist Near Me

Do you need a diabetic foot doctor or the best diabetic podiatrist near you? We have board-certified podiatrists & foot doctors for diabetes!

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  • Board-Certified Podiatrists
  • Diabetic Foot Doctor Near You
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Best Diabetic Foot Doctor & Podiatrist Near Me

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A diabetic foot doctor and diabetic podiatrist can be a crucial part of treating your diabetes. Regular podiatrist visits have been proven to reduce the incidence of diabetic foot infections, reduce amputations and prevent hospitalizations.

Diabetic Foot Doctor & Podiatrist Treatment Tips Video

The best diabetic foot doctor and podiatrists near me video summary:

Do you have diabetes & diabetic foot pain? We go over the BEST Diabetic Foot Treatment: Manage Diabetic Foot Symptoms & Prevent Diabetic Foot Ulcers!

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https://youtu.be/XoMoUzdM1-w

0:00 Diabetic Foot Treatment
0:46 Diabetic Foot Podiatrist
1:00 Diabetic Foot Symptoms
1:15 Diabetic Foot Exam
1:35 Diabetic Foot Soaks
2:00 How to soak diabetic feet 
2:25 Diabetic foot self-assessment at home
2:40 Diabetic Foot Infection
2:55 Diabetic foot socks
3:18 Diabetic foot shoes
3:50 Best Diabetic slippers
4:10 Best Diabetic Shoes
4:35 How to fit a diabetic shoe
4:50 Diabetic foot orthotics
5:05 Diabetes and poor blow flow
5:50 Diabetic foot nerve pain
6:21 Diabetic Foot Peripheral Neuropathy
6:35 Diabetic foot ulcer prevention
6:50 Diabetic foot home remedies and home diabetic foot prevention

Top Questions About Diabetic Foot Doctors

Why is it important to see a podiatrist for your diabetic foot problems?

Research states that there is a foot amputation toe amputation loss due to diabetes every 20 seconds. When the patient has diabetes, they have a significantly greater risk of having foot problems and complications. Diabetes can lead to a lack of sensation called peripheral neuropathy, and poor blood flow called peripheral arterial disease.

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that happens to the feet and the toes; this prevents most patients from having a good feeling in their toes and their feet, and that patient will lose the ability to feel over time. When an injury happens, such as a small cut or wound, he can frequently go unnoticed and lead to significant foot problems.
People with diabetes also suffer from peripheral arterial disease, leading to poor blood flow and slower healing of these diabetic wounds and ulcers.

Can a podiatrist help with diabetes?

Yes, the prime foot and ankle specialist podiatrists are board-certified and trained to deal with diabetes and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Specifically, we are trained to deal with diabetic foot ulcers and work as part of the multidisciplinary team to assess your foot for health risks and develop treatment and prevention plans for diabetes.

https://youtu.be/XoMoUzdM1-w Diabetic foot management podiatrist in Michigan

Foot Problems Associated with Diabetes

The most common problems associated with diabetes are:

Diabetic Foot Ulcers:

A diabetic foot ulcer is a wound that can occur on the bottom of the toes, heel, or the bottom of the foot. Diabetic foot is much more likely to developing foot breakdown in this creates a non-healing open wound. These diabetic foot ulcers can gradually grow larger and become infected over time.
Treatment of diabetic foot ulcers can be very long and can be very expensive. Statistically, it is very likely to lead to hospitalization and infection, and possible amputations.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy:

Diabetic purl full neuropathy means that with elevated blood sugars, over time, this can cause pain and eventually numbness in your toes, feet, and ankles. This can lead to more significant stress fractures, fractures, open wounds and injuries, and swelling. It is impossible to know whether there is an injury; it is a good idea to see a podiatrist make sure it does not worsen.

Charcot arthropathy of the foot:

When a patient with diabetic peripheral neuropathy develops nerves damage, this can cause weakening of the bones in the feet. The bones can then can and can fracture and result and foot deformities.

Diabetic foot amputations:

Having diabetes in the feet can lead to amputations of the big toe joint, amputations of the small toes, and a can lead to a forefoot amputation or a full leg amputation.
It is, unfortunately, something we encounter very commonly and has a high rate of development in the community. It is important to follow up with a podiatrist and ensure that this is not happening to you.

How often should a person with diabetes see a podiatrist?

Most health insurance plans and Medicare allow patients to see their podiatrist approximately every 62 days for diabetic foot care.

  • This allows a podiatrist to treat diabetic callus treatment, diabetic foot corn treatment, and diabetic toenail fungus treatment.
  • We recommend that high-risk patients be seen at least four times a year, and lower-risk patients can be seen approximately 1-2 times a year.
  • We see many patients hospitalized for diabetic foot infections and other significant problems, and we always do our best to answer the phone immediately, take bacterial cultures, and be ready with home care evaluations in the southeastern Michigan region.
  • If you are in southeastern Michigan, considering coming to see us for a no-obligation consultation for your diabetic foot pain. We also offer home care visits for your diabetic foot exam and evaluation.

Most Trusted Podiatrists in Michigan

Trusted Diabetic Foot Doctors

Specializing in foot pain, sports injuries, diabetic care, wound care, fungal conditions, and advanced treatment options.

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive foot and ankle care for patients in Howell and Bloomfield Township, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term mobility.

Book Now Renowned for senior foot care, gentle treatment techniques, diabetic foot management, and preventive foot health.

Dr. Carl Jay,
DPM

Dr. Jay delivers trusted general podiatric care, helping patients manage foot and ankle pain, injuries, and chronic conditions with plan tailored to your foot types.

Book Now Schedule an appointment - Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM

Dr. Gutkin offers attentive foot and ankle care for a many conditions, emphasizing preventive care and patient education to support healthy, active lifestyles.

Book Now

Symptoms of Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetic foot problems often develop gradually and may not be painful at first. Watch for these common symptoms:

  • Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the feet
  • Loss of feeling or reduced sensation
  • Foot pain or cramping, especially at night
  • Dry, cracked, or peeling skin
  • Swelling of the feet or ankles
  • Changes in skin color (red, pale, blue, or darkened areas)
  • Corns and calluses that build up quickly
  • Thickened, brittle, or infected toenails
  • Open sores, blisters, or ulcers that do not heal
  • Redness, warmth, or drainage from the skinFoul odor from a wound or infection
  • Changes in foot shape or toe alignment
  •  

Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist

At our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices, your podiatrist will:

  1. Evaluate your gait and foot structure

  2. Identify pressure points causing corns

  3. Design custom orthotics tailored to your needs

  4. Ensure proper fit and comfort

  5. Provide guidance on footwear that works with your orthotics 

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List of Insurances Accepted for Diabetic Foot Care

medicare bluecross blue shield aetna podiatry insurance priority health insurance united healthcare cigna insurance

Best Diabetic Foot Doctor in Howell & Bloomfield Township

If you’re looking for best  diabetic foot doctor near you, Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist offers expert care at two convenient locations:

Howell, MI

Serving Howell and nearby surrounding communities with prompt, professional podiatry care.

Book an Appointment in Howell

Bloomfield Township, MI

Providing trusted ingrown toenail treatment for patients in Bloomfield Township and surrounding areas.

Our clinics are easy to access, accept new patients, and offer compassionate care close to home.

Book an Appointment in Bloomfield Township

More Podiatrist-Recommended Diabetic Essentials

Diabetic-Approved Walking Shoe

Orthofeet Sprint — smooth, extra-depth, designed for neuropathic feet.

Seamless Diabetic Sock

OS1st FS4 Plantar Fasciitis No Show Socks

OS1st FS4 — non-binding, moisture-wicking, protects fragile diabetic skin.

Recovery Slide for Indoor Wear

HOKA Ora 3 — protects diabetic feet from barefoot injury at home.

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.

Diabetic Foot Exam 2 - Balance Foot & Ankle

When to See a Podiatrist

One unnoticed blister on a neuropathic foot can become a limb-threatening ulcer in under 14 days. Medicare covers diabetic shoes (A5500) and comprehensive foot exams annually for most diabetic patients with neuropathy or circulation concerns. Balance Foot & Ankle runs a dedicated diabetic limb-preservation program — vascular screening, offloading, ulcer care, and shoe fitting — all in one visit. Schedule your annual diabetic foot exam today.

Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402  ·  Book online  ·  Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township

FAQ About Diabetic Foot Doctor

diabetic foot doctor faq Why should diabetics see a foot doctor regularly?

Diabetes can reduce circulation and nerve sensation in the feet. Regular visits to a podiatrist help prevent infections, ulcers, and serious complications through early detection and proper care.

How often should a diabetic see a podiatrist?

Most diabetic patients should see a podiatrist at least once a year. Those with neuropathy, foot pain, wounds, or nail problems may need more frequent visits.

What diabetic foot services are offered at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist?

Our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices provide diabetic foot exams, nail and skin care, wound prevention, ulcer management, custom orthotics, and treatment for infections and circulation-related issues.

Can a podiatrist help prevent diabetic foot ulcers?

Yes. A podiatrist identifies pressure points, monitors skin health, and provides preventive care such as callus management, orthotics, and footwear guidance to reduce ulcer risk.

Should diabetics treat foot problems at home?

No. Self-treatment can lead to infections or delayed healing. Diabetics should always have corns, calluses, wounds, and nail issues treated by a medical professional.

When should a diabetic see a podiatrist immediately?

Seek prompt care if you notice foot wounds, redness, swelling, numbness, color changes, drainage, or pain. Early treatment can prevent serious complications.

How can a podiatrist help a person with diabetes?

Podiatrists are important members of a diabetes treatment team. Our podiatrists are board-certified in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery, board-certified in foot and ankle care of diabetic problems such as corns and calluses, foot deformities, bunions hammertoes tightness, and joint pain.

Allow us to show you with an obligation consultation to see why we are the choice to help treat the diabetic foot problems of your loved ones.

See why we have the best reviews in the area with very happy patients.

How often should people with diabetes see a podiatrist?

We frequently hear the question, “how often should diabetics see a podiatrist?”
We generally recommend high-risk patients be seen four times per year, where his lower risk patients can be seen about 1-2 times per year. Medicare and other Medicare advantage plans allow people with diabetes to be seen approximately every 62 days for diabetes and diabetic foot care.

Podiatrist diabetic foot ulcer treatment:

If you have a diabetic foot ulcer, I strongly recommend seeing a podiatrist for diabetic foot ulcer treatment. We are available to provide treatment for these foot and ankle problems.

Podiatrist specializing in diabetes near me:

We frequently hear the question: “Who is the best podiatrist specializing in diabetes near me?” We want to be the answer to that question. As prime foot and ankle specialists, we have board-certified podiatrists and foot doctors specializing in diabetes. Let us be the choice to help you.

Why do people with diabetes need to see a podiatrist?

The biggest reason people with diabetes need to see a podiatrist is to prevent infections, diabetic foot ulcers, and hospitalization.
Suppose a person with diabetes is very easy to develop foot and ankle problems and wounds. See a podiatrist regularly can get a consultation for diabetic shoes, which are generally covered by insurance, custom orthotics to offload foot pain. Evaluation of bunions and hammertoes that could cause significant pain.
As well as treatment of ingrown toenails, ingrown toenail infections, thick toenail infections, athlete’s foot and more.
It is good to have a podiatrist on standby just in case he develops a foot infection, as your podiatrist can send in a prescription to prevent hospitalization very easily.

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Protect Your Feet Before Problems Start

Don’t wait for minor issues to turn into serious complications. Schedule your diabetic foot evaluation with our board-certified podiatrists in Howell or Bloomfield Township today. Early care can prevent ulcers, infections, and long-term foot damage—keeping you active and safe.

Book Your Appointment Now Call Now for Urgent Visit

Related Treatment Guides

Medical References & Sources

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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

When conservative care isn’t enough, Dr. Tom Biernacki and the team at Balance Foot & Ankle offer advanced, same-day options — including Diabetic Foot Care Michigan at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics.

Same-day appointments available. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online.

Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for diabetic foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Daily inspection prevents amputation
  • ✓ Most insurance covers DME
  • ✓ Custom orthotics help

Considerations

  • ✗ Daily commitment required
  • ✗ Slow wound healing
  • ✗ Charcot risk if neuropathy

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for diabetic foot care

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.

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Diabetic Compression Socks Dr. Tom’s Pick

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Hibiclens Antiseptic Dr. Tom’s Pick

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Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.

Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available

Call Now: (810) 206-1402

About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.

Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402

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📋 Affiliate Disclosure + Trust Statement:
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your diabetic foot conditions, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

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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.

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.

What is Diabetic foot?

Diabetic foot is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.

Symptoms and warning signs

Common signs of diabetic foot include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.

Conservative treatment options

Most cases of diabetic foot respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.

Recovery timeline and prevention

Recovery from diabetic foot varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-certified podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI. 4.9-star rating across 1,123+ patient reviews. Schedule an evaluation | (810) 206-1402

Ready to feel better?

Same-week appointments available in Howell and Bloomfield Township, Michigan.

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Ready to fix this for good?

Reading goes only so far. The fastest path to relief is a 30-minute office visit with Dr. Biernacki — same-day Howell or Bloomfield Township. Call (810) 206-1402 or use our online booking.

Book Your Diabetic Foot Visit Online

Choose your office and pick a time online — no phone call needed.

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More questions patients ask

What kind of doctor specializes in diabetic foot care?

Podiatrists (Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, DPM) are the primary specialists for diabetic foot care. Podiatrists have extensive training in: diabetic peripheral neuropathy assessment, diabetic foot ulcer prevention and treatment, wound care and debridement, custom diabetic footwear and orthotic prescription, lower extremity vascular evaluation, nail care for diabetic patients, and foot surgery. For complex diabetic foot problems, a multidisciplinary limb salvage team may include podiatrists, vascular surgeons, infectious disease specialists, and endocrinologists. The American Diabetes Association recommends annual comprehensive foot exams by a podiatrist for all diabetes patients, with more frequent visits for high-risk patients. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM provide expert diabetic foot care in Howell (4330 E Grand River) and Bloomfield Township (43494 Woodward Ave #208) — call (810) 206-1402.

What does a diabetic foot exam involve?

A comprehensive diabetic foot examination includes: skin assessment (skin integrity, moisture, calluses, blisters, wounds, skin temperature, nail condition), neurological assessment (10-gram monofilament testing for protective sensation, vibration testing with tuning fork, proprioception), vascular assessment (palpation of pedal pulses, ankle-brachial index if indicated, skin perfusion), musculoskeletal assessment (foot deformities, joint range of motion, gait), footwear evaluation (fit, condition, appropriate style), and risk category classification. The exam is typically painless and takes 15–20 minutes. Documentation of examination findings is required for Medicare coverage of subsequent podiatric services. At Balance Foot & Ankle, comprehensive diabetic foot exams are a priority — call (810) 206-1402.

What are the most dangerous foot problems for diabetic patients?

The most serious diabetic foot complications: (1) Diabetic foot ulcers — open wounds that are the precursor to 80% of lower extremity amputations; (2) Charcot foot (Charcot neuroarthropathy) — progressive bone and joint destruction from neuropathy causing severe foot deformity if untreated; (3) Deep space infection and osteomyelitis — bone infection that may require surgical bone removal or amputation; (4) Peripheral arterial disease with ischemic tissue loss — poor blood flow prevents healing; (5) Necrotizing fasciitis — rapidly spreading soft tissue infection that is life-threatening. Each of these begins insidiously — early detection through regular podiatric visits prevents catastrophic outcomes. Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell (4330 E Grand River) and Bloomfield Township (43494 Woodward Ave #208) provides limb-preserving diabetic foot care — call (810) 206-1402.

Can a diabetic foot wound be healed without amputation?

Yes — with timely, expert care, most diabetic foot wounds can be healed without amputation. Success depends on: prompt evaluation and treatment before infection deepens or spreads, adequate blood flow to support healing (revascularization may be needed), effective offloading of pressure from the wound, blood glucose control (poor glucose control dramatically impairs healing), appropriate antibiotics if infection is present, and wound care to manage the wound environment. Approximately 85% of diabetes-related amputations are preventable with early intervention. The leading factor in amputation is delayed treatment — patients with wounds who wait weeks before seeking care have dramatically worse outcomes. At Balance Foot & Ankle, we evaluate diabetic foot wounds urgently to maximize limb salvage rates — call (810) 206-1402.

How often should diabetics check their feet?

Daily self-exams plus professional exams annually (or every 3-6 months for neuropathy/PAD patients). Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive diabetic foot care programs.

Why do diabetics have foot problems?

Diabetes causes nerve damage, reduced blood flow, and impaired immunity. Injuries go unnoticed and heal slowly. ~15% of diabetics develop ulcers. Prevention through regular podiatric care is essential.

What are signs of diabetic neuropathy?

Tingling, burning, numbness starting in toes, sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness, balance problems. Schedule evaluation at 810-206-1402 for nerve testing and management.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

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