Quick answer: Falls In Elderly Falls Precautions Fall Risk Fall Prevention 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
Falls in Elderly & Falls Precautions [Fall Risk & 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 Township: (810) 206-1402.
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Expert Foot & Ankle Care for Seniors in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults—but many are preventable. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, our podiatrists help seniors improve balance, mobility, and foot health to reduce fall risk and stay active with confidence.
Schedule a Senior Foot & Balance EvaluationWhy Fall Prevention Matters for Seniors
As we age, changes in foot strength, sensation, circulation, and balance can significantly increase the risk of falls. Conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, poor footwear, and untreated foot pain often go unnoticed until an injury occurs.
A comprehensive podiatric evaluation can identify hidden risk factors and provide personalized solutions—helping seniors walk more safely and maintain independence.
Falls are a major health concern for seniors and can lead to serious injuries, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. Understanding fall risks and taking proper fall precautions—especially through foot health, balance support, and preventive care—plays a key role in helping older adults stay safe, mobile, and confident in their daily activities.
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Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist?
Experienced Podiatrists with extensive senior care expertise
Balance & Gait Assessments to identify fall risks early
Custom Orthotics & Bracing for improved stability
Diabetic & Neuropathy Care to address loss of sensation
Convenient Michigan Locations in Howell & Bloomfield Township
Compassionate, Patient-Focused Approach
Trusted by Thousands of Seniors Across Michigan
Real patients. Real relief. Discover why seniors in Howell and Bloomfield Township choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist.
Excellent care after my fall.
After I fractured my ankle from a fall, the team at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist helped me regain stability and confidence. The doctor explained everything clearly and focused on preventing future falls. I’m walking much better now.
— Robert M., Howell, MI
“Compassionate and professional.”
After breaking my foot due to a fall, I needed ongoing care and reassurance. Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist provided excellent treatment and support. The staff was patient, kind, and very knowledgeable.
— Thomas R., Howell, MI
“Confidence restored.”
I struggled with ankle weakness and fear of falling after an injury. The podiatry team helped me with bracing and balance-focused care. I can walk more confidently and stay active again.
— Margaret L., Bloomfield Township, MI
“They truly understand senior foot care.”
I was having balance issues and foot pain that made me afraid of falling. The podiatrist took the time to evaluate my feet, recommended supportive orthotics, and gave helpful guidance. I feel much safer on my feet now.
— Elaine P., Bloomfield Township, MI
Foot and Ankle Care for Every Lifestyle
Serving seniors, workers, and athletes with plan tailored to your foot types 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
Book a Podiatrist Visit NowMore Podiatrist-Recommended Seniors Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.
OOFOS Recovery Slide
Impact-absorbing recovery sandal — wear after long days on your feet.
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
Foot problems are the #1 preventable cause of falls in adults over 70. Balance Foot & Ankle runs comprehensive senior foot evaluations — balance testing, circulation checks, nail and callus care, and diabetic screening. Medicare covers most services. Let us help you stay mobile and independent at home.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township
Frequently Asked Questions
How can foot problems cause falls in seniors?
Foot pain, numbness, weakness, or deformities can affect balance and walking patterns, increasing the likelihood of tripping or losing stability.
Should seniors see a podiatrist even without foot pain?Yes. Many fall risks—such as balance issues or loss of sensation—develop without obvious pain. Preventive evaluations are highly beneficial.
Can orthotics help prevent falls?Custom orthotics and supportive footwear can improve alignment, stability, and traction, reducing fall risk.
How often should seniors have foot exams?At least once a year, or more often if they have diabetes, neuropathy, or a history of falls.
Is fall prevention covered by insurance?Many evaluations and treatments are covered, especially when related to medical conditions. Our staff can help verify coverage.
Our board-certified podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle care.
Board Certified Podiatrist for Elderly Foot Care
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.
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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 plan tailored to your foot types.
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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.
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Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Township Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Township, 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
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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
Get Expert Help at Balance Foot & Ankle
If this condition is affecting your daily activities or hasn’t improved with home treatment, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Tom Biernacki. We offer same-day appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Township locations and accept most insurance including Medicare. Most patients are walking comfortably within 4-6 weeks of starting our protocol — conservative care first, surgery only when needed.
Call (810) 206-1402 or request an appointment online. Our team responds within 1 business hour during clinic days.
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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot and ankle 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
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
What are the most effective fall prevention strategies for the elderly?
Evidence-based fall prevention strategies include: exercise programs — particularly balance training (Tai Chi reduces fall risk by 30–40%), strength training, and walking programs; medication review (polypharmacy, sedatives, and blood pressure medications are major fall contributors); vision correction and regular eye exams; home hazard assessment and modification (remove throw rugs, install grab bars, improve lighting); footwear assessment and correction (proper-fitting supportive shoes); vitamin D supplementation (1,000 IU/day reduces fall risk); and addressing foot conditions. Multifactorial interventions combining several strategies are most effective. At Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell (4330 E Grand River) and Bloomfield Township (43494 Woodward Ave #208), we identify and treat foot-related fall risk factors — call (810) 206-1402.
How do foot problems contribute to fall risk in seniors?
Foot problems are among the most significant and modifiable fall risk factors in elderly patients: painful foot conditions alter gait patterns, reducing stability; peripheral neuropathy impairs proprioception (the sense of foot position), making balance unreliable; hallux valgus (bunions) and toe deformities reduce push-off strength and alter weight distribution; thick, ingrown, or deformed toenails affect toe clearance during walking; foot drop from nerve damage causes tripping; and poor-fitting footwear is a primary fall hazard. Research demonstrates that podiatric treatment combined with orthotic devices and footwear advice reduces fall rates by up to 36% in high-risk elderly patients. Balance Foot & Ankle addresses foot-related fall risk — call (810) 206-1402.
What medications increase fall risk in elderly patients?
Medications with highest fall risk in seniors: benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan — sedation and balance impairment), sleep medications (Ambien, Lunesta), antidepressants (particularly tricyclics and SSRIs), antipsychotics, opioid pain medications, antihypertensives (especially alpha-blockers causing orthostatic hypotension), diuretics (dehydration and orthostatic hypotension), anticonvulsants, and antihistamines. The risk compounds with polypharmacy (4+ medications). Regular medication reviews with the prescribing physician are essential. At Balance Foot & Ankle, we identify medication effects that contribute to foot-related fall risk and coordinate with primary care physicians — call (810) 206-1402.
What home modifications reduce fall risk for seniors?
High-impact home fall prevention modifications: bathroom (grab bars at toilet and shower/tub, non-slip bath mat, shower chair if needed, nightlight), stairs (handrails on both sides, non-slip treads, adequate lighting), flooring (remove throw rugs and area rugs, secure carpet edges, minimize clutter), bedroom (nightlight or motion-activated light, phone within reach of bed, bed height adjustment), kitchen (non-slip mat, frequently used items within easy reach without climbing), and outdoor (adequate lighting, handrails on all steps, level pathways). Occupational therapists provide detailed home safety assessments. Proper footwear throughout the home is essential — avoid walking barefoot. Balance Foot & Ankle addresses footwear-related fall risk — call (810) 206-1402.
What should you do immediately after an elderly person falls?
Immediate fall response: first, do not move the person if head, neck, or spinal injury is suspected — call 911. If the person is conscious and complains of pain, difficulty moving a limb, hip pain (possible hip fracture), head pain, or loss of consciousness, call 911. If no serious injury is suspected and the person can safely be assisted up: help them roll to their side, then to kneeling position, then use a sturdy chair to push up. After any fall, medical evaluation is recommended even without obvious injury — subdural hematomas can present hours later, and hip fractures may initially seem like just a bruise. Post-fall podiatric evaluation addresses foot issues that may have contributed. Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell and Bloomfield Township — 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.