Dr. Jerry Gold DPM 2026 | Balance Foot & Ankle Michigan

A comprehensive podiatric examination includes: vascular assessment (pulses in the foot, capillary refill time, Doppler evaluation if indicated), neurological testing (vibration, protective sensation with monofilament in diabetic patients, deep tendon reflexes), dermatological inspection (skin, nails, color changes, wounds), biomechanical evaluation (arch height, range of motion, joint stability, gait analysis), musculoskeletal exam (palpating tendons, ligaments, and joints for tenderness), and imaging review when needed. For diabetic patients, this comprehensive exam is recommended annually at minimum. Balance Foot & Ankle (810) 206-1402 provides thorough foot evaluations at offices in Howell (4330 E Grand River) and Bloomfield Township (43494 Woodward Ave #208).

In-office podiatric treatments include: cortisone injections for inflammation, in-office nail procedures (ingrown toenail removal, nail avulsion), wart treatment (cryotherapy, cantharidin, liquid nitrogen), corn and callus debridement, wound care and dressing changes, casting and splinting, custom orthotic casting/scanning, ultrasound-guided injections, shockwave therapy, gait analysis and biomechanical assessment, orthotics fitting, and minor soft tissue procedures. For diabetic patients, regular in-office nail care and callus management prevents complications. Balance Foot & Ankle's podiatrists Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM provide comprehensive in-office care without needing referrals for most foot conditions.

Plantar fasciitis treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle follows a stepped approach: first-line — stretching program (gastrocnemius and plantar fascia stretches), ice after activity, supportive footwear, and OTC heel cushions or arch supports. Second-line — custom orthotics, night splint (prevents overnight contracture), physical therapy (ultrasound, manual therapy), cortisone injections for refractory pain, and activity modification. Third-line for persistent cases — shockwave therapy (ESWT — strong evidence, 60–80% success), platelet-rich plasma injections. Surgical release (plantar fasciotomy) for truly refractory cases after 12 months of conservative care. Most patients at Balance Foot & Ankle achieve full resolution without surgery. Call (810) 206-1402.

Yes — podiatrists prescribe, design, and fit custom orthotics as one of their core services. Custom orthotics are made from a 3D scan, plaster cast, or foam impression of your foot while weight-bearing, then fabricated to your precise biomechanical prescription — addressing your specific overpronation, supination, leg length discrepancy, or other mechanical issue. Store-bought (prefabricated) insoles provide generic arch support that may help mild conditions but can't address individual biomechanical dysfunction. Custom orthotics typically last 3–5 years with proper care and are covered by many insurance plans when medically necessary. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township provides comprehensive orthotic evaluation and prescription.

Bunion surgery recovery timeline varies by procedure: minimally invasive (MIS) osteotomies allow weight-bearing in a surgical shoe within days, return to wide regular shoes at 6–8 weeks, and athletic activity at 3–4 months. Traditional open osteotomy procedures typically involve 6–8 weeks of protected weight-bearing (surgical shoe or boot), return to regular shoes at 10–12 weeks, and athletic activity at 4–6 months. Lapidus procedure (fusion at the base of the first metatarsal — for hypermobile first ray) requires non-weight-bearing for 6–8 weeks, regular shoes at 4–5 months, and athletic activity at 5–7 months. Full recovery including normal shoe fit without swelling can take up to 12–18 months. Balance Foot & Ankle provides comprehensive post-operative care throughout recovery.