Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
Quick Answer
Does Insurance Cover X-Rays and Ultrasound at the Podiatrist relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp: (810) 206-1402.
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Does Insurance Cover X-Rays and Ultrasound at the Podiatrist?
Diagnostic X-ray and ultrasound at the podiatrist’s office are covered as part of medically necessary evaluation. Results in minutes — no separate radiology trip needed.
At Balance Foot & Ankle, both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices have in-house digital X-ray and musculoskeletal ultrasound. If you need imaging, it happens during your appointment — you get a diagnosis in one visit, not days later after a trip to a separate imaging center.
About In-Office X-Ray and Ultrasound
In-office X-ray allows instant evaluation of fractures, bone alignment, arthritis, heel spurs, and bone tumors. Musculoskeletal ultrasound provides real-time dynamic imaging of tendons, ligaments, plantar fascia thickness, and foreign bodies — all without radiation. Having both in-office eliminates referral delays and gets you answers immediately.
What Insurance Covers
- X-ray (1–3 views) — covered under standard radiology benefit when medically indicated
- Weight-bearing X-ray for flat feet, bunions, arthritis assessment — covered
- Diagnostic ultrasound for plantar fasciitis, tendon tears, Morton’s neuroma — covered
- Ultrasound-guided injections — covered (and more accurate than landmark-guided)
- Follow-up imaging to assess healing — covered with documentation
How Coverage Works by Insurance Type
Medicare Part B: Covers X-ray and diagnostic ultrasound when medically necessary. Billed separately from the office visit — your Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance apply. If you have a supplemental Medigap plan, typically covered at 100%.
Medicare Advantage: Covers in-office imaging; network restrictions may apply. We participate with most Michigan Advantage plans — we verify before your visit.
Commercial Insurance (BCBS, Aetna, United, Cigna, Humana): Covered as medically necessary diagnostic services. Deductible and copay apply based on your plan tier. Most plans do not require separate pre-authorization for diagnostic X-ray or ultrasound.
Workers’ Compensation: Imaging related to a work injury is fully covered — we handle workers’ comp billing directly.
Why In-Office Imaging Saves You Money
Hospital-based radiology departments bill at facility rates — often $400–$800 for an ankle X-ray. Our in-office imaging is billed at professional rates, typically $80–$200 billed to insurance. If you have a high deductible, in-office imaging can save you hundreds of dollars per visit.
What May Not Be Covered
Imaging without documented medical necessity (e.g., screening with no symptoms) is not covered. MRI requires referral and pre-authorization for most plans — we handle this when needed. Ultrasound for purely cosmetic evaluation is not covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ultrasound at the podiatrist as accurate as at a hospital?
Yes — musculoskeletal ultrasound by a trained podiatrist is clinically equivalent to radiology ultrasound for foot/ankle structures, with the added advantage of dynamic real-time assessment while you move.
Will I get a separate bill for imaging?
Imaging is billed separately from your office visit — two separate claims on your explanation of benefits. This is normal and expected.
Can I get an MRI at your office?
We do not have in-office MRI, but we provide referrals and handle pre-authorization. MRI is typically needed for soft tissue injuries not visible on ultrasound or X-ray.
Not sure what your plan covers? Our team verifies your insurance before every visit — no surprise bills, no confusion.
📞 (810) 206-1402 | Howell: 4330 E Grand River Ave | Bloomfield Hills: 43494 Woodward Ave #208
We accept Medicare, Medicare Advantage, BCBS, Aetna, United Healthcare, Cigna, Humana, HAP, Molina, Meridian, Priority Health, Oscar, McLaren, Workers’ Comp, VA, and most Michigan insurance plans.
✅ In-Office Digital X-Ray — both locations
✅ In-Office Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
✅ Ultrasound-Guided Injections
✅ MLS Dual-Wavelength Laser — FDA-cleared
✅ EPAT Shockwave Therapy
✅ 3D-Scanned Custom Orthotics
📞 (810) 206-1402 | Howell & Bloomfield Hills
📞 Need imaging today? Call (810) 206-1402 — in-office X-ray and ultrasound, same-day appointments available, results before you leave.
Professional Podiatric Care in Michigan: Balance Foot & Ankle’s Comprehensive Services
At Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan patients receive comprehensive podiatric care across the full spectrum of foot and ankle conditions. Our fellowship-trained podiatrists provide conservative and surgical treatment for all foot and ankle pathology — from plantar fasciitis, bunions, and nail disorders to complex reconstructive surgery, diabetic foot care, and sports injuries. Our clinical approach prioritizes accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment selection, and honest communication with patients about realistic outcomes.
We serve patients in Livingston and Oakland counties from two convenient Michigan locations: our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River (serving Brighton, Hartland, Pinckney, Howell, and all of Livingston County) and our Bloomfield Hills office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208 (serving Troy, Birmingham, West Bloomfield, Farmington Hills, and all of Oakland County). Both offices offer in-office X-ray, same-week new patient appointments, and a full range of diagnostic and treatment services. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Medicare, and most Michigan insurance plans. Call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule your appointment.
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Bunion Treatment
Michigan patients experiencing foot or ankle problems can schedule an appointment at Balance Foot & Ankle — with locations in Howell (4330 E Grand River) and Bloomfield Hills (43494 Woodward Ave #208). Call (810) 206-1402 for same-week availability.
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.
Book Your AppointmentPros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Conservative care first
- ✓ Same-week appointments
- ✓ Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
- ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp. 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 Twp, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
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.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management (PubMed)
- Plantar Fasciitis (APMA)
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
- Heel Pain (APMA)