Quick answer: Medicare’s therapeutic shoe benefit covers diabetic shoes and inserts for patients who qualify. We measure, fit and handle the paperwork at our Bloomfield Township office. Book online or call (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
Qualifying is decided by your diagnosis and your certifying physician, not by the shoe supplier. Book a real opening at our Bloomfield Township office online — the scheduler is open 24/7, or call (810) 206-1402.
Related Conditions
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026
In This Article
Diabetic Shoe Fitting in Bloomfield Township — Same Building as Grunberger Diabetes Institute
Diabetic Shoe Fitting Steps Away From Your Diabetes Doctor
At Balance Foot & Ankle in Bloomfield Township, we offer Medicare Therapeutic Shoe fitting in the same building as the Grunberger Diabetes Institute at 43494 Woodward Ave. For patients managing diabetes with Dr. Grunberger’s team, this means your shoe fitting can happen on the same visit as your endocrinology appointment — maximizing the value of your time. Call (810) 206-1402.
Our Bloomfield Township Diabetic Shoe Fitting Process
Digital foot measurement and pressure mapping, assessment of any foot deformities, calluses, or high-risk areas requiring accommodative features, selection from our Medicare-covered therapeutic shoe inventory (Dr. Comfort, New Balance, Orthofeet, Drew, Apex), custom orthotic fitting to accompany the shoe, Medicare claim filing handled by our billing team. Most patients pay $0 out of pocket with Medicare plus supplemental.
Coordinated Care With Grunberger Diabetes Institute
When your endocrinologist at the Grunberger Diabetes Institute documents your qualifying diabetic foot condition, our team at Suite 208 can often coordinate the shoe certification and fitting paperwork for the same visit. This eliminates the delays common when endocrinologist and podiatrist offices are across town from each other.
📞 (810) 206-1402 | Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI
Schedule Your Bloomfield Township Diabetic Shoe Fitting
43494 Woodward Ave, Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302. Call (810) 206-1402. Serving all of Oakland County.
Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Care in Michigan: Balance Foot & Ankle’s Diabetic Program
At Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan diabetic patients receive a structured foot care program that addresses the full range of diabetes-related foot risks: neuropathy surveillance, vascular assessment, skin and nail care, ulcer prevention and treatment, therapeutic footwear prescription, and patient education on daily foot care habits. Our diabetic foot care program follows the clinical guidelines established by the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons — incorporating annual comprehensive foot examinations for all diabetic patients, more frequent visits for patients with active neuropathy, vascular compromise, or prior ulceration history, and urgent same-day evaluation for diabetic foot wounds that cannot safely wait for a routine appointment.
The statistics supporting intensive podiatric co-management for diabetic patients are compelling: regular podiatric care reduces the risk of diabetic foot amputation by up to 85% compared to diabetic patients without podiatric surveillance. For the 37 million Americans living with diabetes — including the substantial diabetic population in Livingston and Oakland counties — this preventive impact is the strongest argument for establishing podiatric care before a problem develops. Michigan diabetic patients who have not yet established podiatric care should call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule their first comprehensive diabetic foot examination at our Howell or Bloomfield Township office. We accept Medicare and most Michigan private insurance plans for diabetic foot care services.
Diabetic Foot Care Insurance Coverage in Michigan: What Medicare and Private Plans Cover
Michigan diabetic patients often have more insurance coverage for podiatric care than they realize. Medicare covers the annual comprehensive diabetic foot examination for all Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes, therapeutic shoe fitting and inserts for qualifying diabetic patients, nail debridement for patients with qualifying systemic conditions (diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy), and treatment of diabetic foot wounds including ulcer care. Most Michigan private insurance plans follow similar coverage patterns for diabetic foot care, though specific coverage details vary by plan. At Balance Foot & Ankle, our insurance verification team confirms your specific coverage before your appointment and explains exactly what will be covered and what your out-of-pocket responsibility will be. There are no insurance surprises at check-in. Michigan diabetic patients who want to understand their coverage before scheduling can call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 and speak with our insurance team — we’ll verify your benefits and answer your coverage questions before you decide whether to schedule.
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Bunion Treatment
Balance Foot & Ankle serves Michigan diabetic patients throughout Livingston and Oakland counties from two convenient locations: Howell at 4330 E Grand River (serving Brighton, Hartland, Pinckney, and all of Livingston County) and Bloomfield Township at 43494 Woodward Ave #208 (serving Troy, Birmingham, West Bloomfield, Farmington Hills, and all of Oakland County). New diabetic patients are welcome — call (810) 206-1402 to schedule a hands-on exam plus imaging when needed and begin the preventive podiatric care program that protects your feet for the long term.
Medical References & Sources
- American Diabetes Association — Foot Complications
- PubMed Research — Diabetic Foot Care
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Diabetic Foot
📋 Dr. Tom Also Recommends
Podiatrist Recommended Orthotics 2026: Dr. Tom’s Top 10 Insoles & Arch Supports
A podiatrist’s complete clinical guide to the best insoles — custom orthotics, OTC picks, and what actually works for plantar fasciitis, flat feet, neuropathy & more.
Read the Full Guide →Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for Diabetic Foot Care
📍 Located in Michigan?
Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
These are products I personally use and recommend to my patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
- Dr. Comfort Men’s Paradise Diabetic Shoe — Medicare-covered diabetic shoe with seamless interior — eliminates pressure points that cause diabetic ulcers
- Foundation Wellness DASS Diabetic Socks (Levanta) — non-binding, seamless toe, moisture-wicking diabetic socks protecting neuropathic feet
- Derma Sciences Bordered Gauze Dressings — Non-adherent wound dressing ideal for diabetic foot wound management between podiatry visits
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Insoles
PowerStep is the brand I prescribe most — medical-grade OTC support without the custom orthotic price tag.
- PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — The OTC orthotic I recommend most — medical-grade arch support at a fraction of custom orthotic cost. Works in most shoes.
- PowerStep Maxx Insoles — For severe arch pain or flat feet — maximum correction and support when Pinnacle isn’t enough.
📧 Get Dr. Tom’s Free Lab Test Guide
Discover the 5 lab tests every person over 35 should ask their doctor about — explained in plain English by a board-certified physician.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust for our own patients.
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Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
Get Directions →
Bloomfield Township Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Get Directions →
Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your Appointment👟 Dr. Tom’s Complete Footwear Library
Podiatrist-Approved Guides for Every Foot Type & Condition
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist
All guides are written and reviewed by licensed podiatrists. Schedule an appointment →
More Podiatrist-Recommended Diabetic Essentials
Diabetic-Approved Walking Shoe
Orthofeet Sprint — seamless, extra-depth, designed for neuropathic feet.
Seamless Diabetic Sock
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.

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
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.
Drew Moonwalker Diabetic Shoe Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Medicare-covered diabetic footwear
Diabetic Compression Socks Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily protection + circulation
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
Dr. Tom’s Top 3 — The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)
If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one — over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.
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.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.
- Lateral wedge corrects pronation
- Deep heel cradle stabilizes ankle
- Dual-density EVA — comfort + support
- Trim-to-fit any shoe
- Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
- Trim-to-size required
- 5-7 day break-in for some
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot — the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.
- 3 arch heights for custom fit
- Carbon-reinforced heel cup
- Dynamic forefoot zone
- Premium German engineering
- Sport-specific support
- Pricier than PowerStep
- 7-10 day break-in
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Menthol-based natural pain relief — Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
- Menthol-based natural formula
- No greasy residue
- Safe for diabetics
- Fast cooling relief — 5-10 minutes
- Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
- Pricier than Biofreeze
- Strong menthol scent at first
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.
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)
Shop Doctor Hoy’s →Frequently Asked Questions
Why is diabetic foot care so important?
Diabetes causes two problems that make foot wounds dangerous: peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage reducing sensation) and peripheral arterial disease (reduced blood flow impairing healing). A small blister or cut that a non-diabetic person would notice and treat can go undetected in a diabetic patient for days, become infected, and progress to osteomyelitis. Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations. A consistent foot care routine and regular podiatry visits prevent most amputations.
How often should diabetic patients see a podiatrist?
Patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy should see a podiatrist every 2–3 months for routine nail care and foot inspection. Patients with active foot complications (ulcers, Charcot foot, severe PAD) need more frequent visits — often every 2–4 weeks until stable. Even well-controlled diabetics without neuropathy benefit from annual foot exams. Many amputations we see in consultation could have been prevented with earlier, consistent podiatric care.
What is diabetic peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage from chronically elevated blood sugar, causing numbness, tingling, burning, or loss of sensation — typically starting in the toes and progressing upward in a ‘stocking’ distribution. The dangerous aspect isn’t the pain — it’s the absence of pain. Patients with severe neuropathy don’t feel blisters, cuts, pressure sores, or early infections. A wound can reach bone before it’s noticed. Neuropathy screening with a 10-gram monofilament is part of every diabetic foot exam.
What are the warning signs of a diabetic foot problem?
Seek same-day evaluation for: any open wound or blister that isn’t healing within 1–2 weeks, redness, warmth, or swelling in any part of the foot (possible Charcot fracture or infection), a new blister or callus, any red streaking or warmth spreading up the leg (cellulitis), foot or ankle pain in a diabetic patient with neuropathy (could be Charcot without pain). Don’t wait to see if it improves — diabetic foot infections are medical emergencies.
What is the best foot cream for diabetic feet?
The goal of diabetic foot cream is restoring the skin’s moisture barrier to prevent fissuring and cracking — the entry points for infection. Look for urea-based creams (10–25% urea) or lactic acid formulations that actually penetrate thickened skin rather than sitting on the surface. AmLactin 12%, Eucerin Diabetics’ Dry Skin Relief, and Gold Bond Diabetics’ Dry Skin Relief are clinical-grade options. Avoid cream between the toes — moisture retention between toes promotes maceration and fungal infection.
Can diabetic patients get foot massages?
Light massage is generally safe for diabetic patients without active wounds, severe edema, or PAD. However, deep tissue massage or vigorous rubbing should be avoided — with neuropathy, patients can’t feel if tissue is being damaged. Foot massagers with rollers or intense vibration should be avoided entirely. If you enjoy foot massage, use gentle, light strokes with a diabetic-appropriate foot cream. Let your podiatrist know if you’re incorporating massage into your routine — we can advise based on your circulation status.
What type of socks should diabetic patients wear?
Diabetic socks: seamless (seams can create pressure sores over a neuropathic foot), non-binding at the top (circulation-restrictive socks worsen PAD), moisture-wicking (polyester/wool blend reduces bacterial environment), padded sole (cushions bony prominences). Avoid cotton socks for active patients — cotton retains moisture. Never wear socks with elastic bands that leave marks on the leg. Brands specifically designed for diabetic feet: Thorlos, Wigwam, and most major medical supply brands.
Should diabetic patients cut their own toenails?
It depends on neuropathy severity and vision. Patients with mild neuropathy and good vision can safely trim nails straight across without cutting the corners. Patients with moderate-to-severe neuropathy, poor vision, or thick nails should not self-trim — the risk of cutting the surrounding skin (which they may not feel) is too high. This is exactly what podiatry nail care visits are for. Medicare and most insurance plans cover routine foot care for diabetic patients with documented neuropathy.
What is Charcot foot and how serious is it?
Charcot neuroarthropathy is a serious diabetic complication where neuropathy allows repeated micro-fractures to occur without pain, leading to progressive bone and joint destruction and foot deformity. The classic presentation: a warm, swollen, red foot in a diabetic patient — often mistaken for cellulitis. Early Charcot (caught within weeks of onset) can be managed with a total contact cast to prevent further collapse. Late Charcot with significant arch destruction often requires reconstructive surgery. Missing the diagnosis is catastrophic — a single patient with missed Charcot can progress to a rocker-bottom deformity requiring amputation.
Does insurance cover diabetic foot care?
Medicare Part B covers routine foot care (nail trimming, callus debridement) for diabetic patients with documented peripheral neuropathy — one visit every 2 months. Most PPO and HMO plans follow similar coverage rules. Diabetic shoes and insoles are covered under Medicare’s Therapeutic Shoe Bill (one pair of shoes plus three pairs of custom insoles per year). Call us at (810) 206-1402 and we’ll verify your specific coverage before your first appointment.
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Can’t get to the office? We make house calls across Michigan → — in-home podiatry for homebound and mobility-limited patients, including nail care, wound care and diabetic foot checks.
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.
More questions patients ask
Where can Oakland County diabetics get Medicare therapeutic shoe fitting near Bloomfield Township?
Balance Foot & Ankle at 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township provides Medicare-certified diabetic shoe fitting for Oakland County patients. Our podiatrists evaluate your foot, select appropriate therapeutic footwear, and handle all Medicare documentation and billing. Call (810) 206-1402 to schedule your Bloomfield Township diabetic shoe fitting.
What is the diabetic shoe fitting process at Balance Foot & Ankle in Bloomfield Township?
Balance Foot & Ankle Bloomfield Township performs complete foot measurement, clinical risk assessment, deformity evaluation, therapeutic shoe selection from Medicare-approved styles, custom diabetic insert fitting, and final fit adjustment. The entire process takes 30–45 minutes for Oakland County patients. Call (810) 206-1402.
Does Medicare cover diabetic shoe fitting at Balance Foot & Ankle's Bloomfield Township location?
Yes, Medicare covers one pair of therapeutic shoes and three pairs of custom inserts annually for qualifying Oakland County diabetics. Balance Foot & Ankle Bloomfield Township manages all Medicare certification, documentation, and billing. Most qualifying patients pay minimal out-of-pocket costs. Call (810) 206-1402.
Can Bloomfield Township area diabetics with foot deformities get therapeutic shoes at Balance Foot & Ankle?
Yes, Balance Foot & Ankle Bloomfield Township specializes in therapeutic footwear for Oakland County diabetics with deformities including bunions, hammer toes, Charcot foot, and edematous feet. We select styles that accommodate deformity while maintaining protective function and Medicare compliance. Call (810) 206-1402.
Does Balance Foot & Ankle in Bloomfield Township work with Oakland County endocrinologists for diabetic shoe referrals?
Yes, Balance Foot & Ankle Bloomfield Township accepts physician certification from Oakland County endocrinologists and primary care doctors for Medicare diabetic shoe coverage. We coordinate with your entire care team to ensure seamless diabetic shoe fitting and billing. Call (810) 206-1402.
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.
