Quick answer: Treatment for foot ankle problems cancer treatment chemotherapy neuropathy follows a stepwise approach: 1) conservative care first (rest, ice, supportive footwear, OTC anti-inflammatories), 2) physical therapy and targeted exercises, 3) in-office treatments (injections, custom orthotics) if conservative fails at 4-6 weeks, 4) surgery for refractory cases. Most patients resolve at step 1 or 2. Call (810) 206-1402.
Watch: Peripheral Neuropathy Home Remedies [Leg & Foot Nerve Pain Treatment] — MichiganFootDoctors YouTube
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
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, Suite 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 AppointmentWatch: Foot Problems During Cancer Treatment
Dr. Tom on chemotherapy-induced neuropathy + foot care during cancer treatment — practical guidance.
CIPN Foot Care Kit
Chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) supports. Dr. Tom’s kit:
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Nerve health during/after chemo (confirm with oncologist).
Topical burning/tingling relief.
Pressure redistribution for sore feet.
Gait stability with neuropathic weakness.
Related: Neuropathy Care · Peripheral Neuropathy · Book Neuropathy Evaluation
In Our Clinic
Diabetic neuropathy patients in our clinic often don’t realize they have it until we put a 10-gram Semmes-Weinstein monofilament to the plantar foot and they can’t feel it. Many arrive for an unrelated concern — an ingrown toenail, a callus — and we catch the neuropathy on screening. The conversation then shifts: we need to discuss daily foot inspections, appropriate footwear, the urgency of any blister or open area, and the timing of vascular referral if pulses are diminished. Comprehensive diabetic foot exams are covered by Medicare annually. If you have diabetes, we want to see you once a year even if nothing hurts.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your neuropathy, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-week evaluations and advanced in-office care.
Same-week appointments available. (810) 206-1402
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does treatment take to work?
It depends on the cause and how severe it is. Some problems settle within weeks; others, such as wounds, infections and circulation problems, need prompt treatment and closer follow-up. Your podiatrist will give you a realistic timeline once the cause is confirmed.
When is surgery needed?
It depends on the diagnosis. Some problems, such as a deep infection, dead tissue, or an unstable fracture or tendon rupture, may need surgery promptly, while many others are treated without an operation. Your podiatrist will explain which applies to you and why.
Is this covered by insurance?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Custom orthotics often require diabetic or post-surgical justification.
Ready to feel better?
Same-week appointments available in Howell and Bloomfield Township, Michigan.
Book Your VisitGet Expert Care at Balance Foot & Ankle
Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices. Board-certified podiatric surgeons. Most insurance accepted.
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
How often should diabetics check their feet?
Diabetic patients should perform daily self-examinations of both feet, checking for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, calluses, and temperature changes. Professional diabetic foot exams should occur at least annually, or every 3-6 months for patients with neuropathy, peripheral artery disease, or history of foot ulcers. Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive diabetic foot care programs.
Why do diabetics have foot problems?
Diabetes causes peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage reducing sensation), peripheral artery disease (reduced blood flow), and impaired immune function. This combination means injuries go unnoticed, heal slowly, and are prone to infection. Approximately 15% of diabetics will develop a foot ulcer, and diabetic foot complications are the leading cause of non-traumatic amputation. Prevention through regular podiatric care is essential.
What are the signs of diabetic neuropathy in feet?
Early signs include tingling, burning, or numbness starting in the toes and progressing upward. Other symptoms include sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness, balance problems, and loss of reflexes. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Biernacki at 810-206-1402 for nerve conduction testing and a comprehensive neuropathy management plan.
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.