What does a podiatrist treat?

Podiatrists specialize in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They diagnose and treat heel pain, bunions and hammertoes, tendon injuries, nerve conditions (Morton's neuroma, neuropathy), toenail disorders, skin conditions (warts, calluses, ulcers), fractures, sports injuries, diabetic foot complications, ankle instability, and perform foot and ankle surgery. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM AACFAS serve Howell, Bloomfield Hills, and surrounding Michigan communities.

How often should a healthy person see a podiatrist?

Annual foot exams are beneficial if you are over 60, are an active runner or athlete, have diabetes, have a family history of foot problems, or notice any changes in foot shape, nail appearance, or skin texture. Preventive visits catch problems early — before bunions require surgery or a small nail issue becomes an infection.

Can foot problems cause knee, hip, or back pain?

Yes — the foot is the foundation of the kinetic chain. Overpronation causes the tibia to internally rotate, increasing stress on the knee and altering hip alignment. High arches transmit shock poorly, overloading the ankle and knee. Custom orthotics that correct foot mechanics frequently improve knee, hip, and back symptoms — one of the most underappreciated benefits of podiatric care.

When should I see a podiatrist versus an orthopedic surgeon?

Podiatrists specialize exclusively in the foot, ankle, and lower leg — making them the most experienced providers for most foot and ankle conditions. For foot and ankle surgery, a DPM with high case volume is appropriate. Dr. Tom Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle procedures. Call (810) 206-1402.

First MTP Arthritis & Hallux Rigidus 2026 | Podiatrist

Watch: Stiff Big Toe Joint Pain(Hallux Rigidus) TREATMENT [Exercises, Taping] — MichiganFootDoctors YouTube

Big toe joint arthritis (hallux rigidus) makes pushing off when you walk feel like grinding glass — but rocker shoes, stiff inserts, and joint injections can usually control the pain without surgery.

You’re in the right place. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS — board-certified foot & ankle surgeon with 3,000+ surgeries — explains exactly what big toe joint arthritis means and what works. Call (810) 206-1402 for same-day appointment at Howell or Bloomfield Hills.

Watch: Bunion & toe deformity treatment options

first-mtp-arthritis-hallux-rigidus - Balance Foot & Ankle Michigan

Hallux Rigidus (Big Toe Arthritis): Treatment

Quick answer: Hallux Rigidus requires specialized care. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM coordinates with rheumatology when needed.

Diagnosis

Clinical exam, X-rays, MRI when needed. Sometimes lab work for systemic disease.

Treatment

Anti-inflammatories, custom orthotics, supportive shoes, sometimes injections, surgery as last resort.

Schedule

Call (810) 206-1402.

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AAOS: Hallux Rigidus

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your hallux rigidus, 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

Learn about our hallux rigidus treatment → | Book online →

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Hallux Rigidus (Big Toe Arthritis): Treatment

Diagnosis

Treatment

Schedule

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

Our Podiatry Services Locations in Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle, Bloomfield, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Howell

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Bloomfield Hills