Your First Podiatrist Visit: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Quick answer: A first podiatry visit runs about 30 to 45 minutes: history, a hands-on exam, digital X-rays in the office when needed, and a treatment plan the same day. Bring your insurance card, a list of medications, and the shoes you wear most — worn soles often tell us more than the X-ray. Book online, or call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI. Last updated April 2026.

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Michigan. Last updated April 2026.

Insurance Accepted

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(810) 206-1402

Watch: Dr. Tom explains

Dr. Tom Biernacki explains

Podiatrist-recommended products

As an Amazon Associate, Dr. Tom earns from qualifying purchases.

PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles

Bring current insoles to your first visit.

Check price →
FlexiKold Gel Cold Pack

Manage pain before the appointment.

View on Amazon →
Aircast Walker Boot

For urgent injuries pre-appointment.

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Doctor Hoy’s Pain Relief Gel

Topical relief while scheduling care.

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Ready to solve this? Book today.

Book online 24/7 · Howell & Bloomfield Township · 4.9★ (1,200+ reviews)

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More Podiatrist-Recommended Foot Health Essentials

Hoka Clifton 10

Hoka Men's Clifton 10

Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.

PowerStep Pinnacle Insole

The podiatrist-recommended over-the-counter orthotic.

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.

General Foot Care - Balance Foot & Ankle

When to See a Podiatrist

If foot or ankle pain has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, home care alone may not be enough. Balance Foot & Ankle offers online booking 24/7 at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics — no referral needed in most cases. Bring your current shoes and a short list of symptoms and we’ll build you a treatment plan in one visit.

Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402  ·  Book online  ·  Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township

Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Online Booking 24/7

Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Township. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, you can book online 24/7.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.

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Choose your office

Choose an office, then select New or Existing. Existing patients must also choose a reason for visit before selecting a date and time.

Howell

4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Township

43494 Woodward Ave #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Listed as “Bloomfield Hills Office” in the scheduler.

Book Bloomfield Township

No times on your chosen date? Try another available date or check the other office. Need help? Call (810) 206-1402.

How do I choose a visit reason?

If you select Existing, choose a reason for visit. Use “What reason should I choose?” in the scheduler if you are unsure.

Insurance and referrals

Review accepted plans and referral information before your appointment. View insurance information.

Paying without insurance?

View self-pay pricing and booking guidance.

Prefer a callback?

Our team will call you within one business day. A callback request does not reserve an appointment. Request a callback.