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 Twp: (810) 206-1402.
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Expert Foot & Ankle Care for Seniors in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, 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.
Get Relief, Improve Balance, Stay Mobile — Starting Today
Board-Certified
Medicare Accepted
Senior-Friendly Care
10,000+ Michigan Patients Helped
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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 Hills
Compassionate, Patient-Focused Approach
Trusted by Thousands of Seniors Across Michigan
Real patients. Real relief. Discover why seniors in Howell and Bloomfield Hills 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 Hills, 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 Hills, MI
Foot and Ankle Care for Every Lifestyle
Serving seniors, workers, and athletes with personalized treatment plans 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 Hills
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 Hills, 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 personalized treatment plans.
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Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM
Dr. Gutkin offers attentive foot and ankle care for a wide range of 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
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
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 Hills 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 (248) 337-5500 or request an appointment online. Our team responds within 1 business hour during clinic days.
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)