Foot & Ankle Surgery Michigan 2026 | Balance Foot & Ankle

Quick answer: Foot Ankle Surgery is a common foot/ankle topic that affects many patients. The 2026 evidence-based approach combines proper diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

Expert Foot Ankle Surgery Michigan: What You Need to Know

Our foot ankle surgery michigan program at Balance Foot & Ankle combines board-certified expertise with the latest evidence-based protocols. Our foot ankle surgery michigan team has helped thousands of Michigan patients achieve lasting relief and return to full activity.

When you seek foot ankle surgery michigan at Balance Foot & Ankle, you’ll receive a hands-on exam plus imaging when needed including in-office digital X-ray and musculoskeletal ultrasound. Our foot ankle surgery michigan specialists provide accurate diagnoses and plan tailored to your foot types on your very first visit.

Foot Ankle Surgery Michigan: Our Treatment Philosophy

Conservative foot ankle surgery michigan options at Balance Foot & Ankle include custom 3D orthotics, targeted rehabilitation, anti-inflammatory therapy, and in-office injections. When surgery is indicated for foot ankle surgery michigan cases, our board-certified surgeons use minimally invasive techniques with rapid recovery times.

Our foot ankle surgery michigan team stays current with published research and guidelines from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

Foot Ankle Surgery Michigan FAQ

How do I schedule foot ankle surgery michigan care? Call our office at (810) 206-1402 or book online. Same-day appointments are frequently available at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills, MI locations.

What insurance is accepted for foot ankle surgery michigan? We accept Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, and most major Michigan plans. Call to verify your specific coverage.

Foot & Ankle Surgery in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI

Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Last updated April 2026

When conservative treatment isn’t enough, our board-certified podiatric surgeons perform Balance Foot and Ankle procedures right here in Michigan. Dr. Tom Biernacki (FACFAS) and Dr. Carl Jay bring decades of combined surgical experience, specializing in minimally invasive techniques that reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.

Surgery is always our last resort — we exhaust all conservative options first. When surgery is the right answer, we ensure you understand every step of the process, from pre-operative planning through full recovery.

Surgical Procedures We Perform

Bunion Surgery (Lapiplasty 3D Correction)

Advanced 3D bunion correction that addresses the root cause of the deformity at the unstable joint. Unlike traditional bunion surgery, Lapiplasty corrects the bone in all three dimensions, resulting in lower recurrence rates and faster weight-bearing recovery.

Ankle Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive camera-guided surgery to diagnose and treat ankle joint problems including loose bodies, cartilage damage, bone spurs, and chronic inflammation. Small incisions mean faster recovery and less post-operative pain.

Flat Foot Reconstruction

Surgical restoration of the arch for patients with progressive flatfoot deformity (PTTD). Combines tendon repair, bone realignment, and sometimes joint fusion to create a stable, functional foot and prevent arthritis.

Hammertoe Correction

Minimally invasive surgical straightening of bent or contracted toes. Modern techniques use small incisions and internal fixation to permanently correct the deformity with minimal scarring.

Foot Fracture Repair

Surgical fixation of broken foot bones using plates, screws, or pins to ensure proper alignment and healing. Includes metatarsal fractures, calcaneal (heel) fractures, and Lisfranc injuries.

Achilles Tendon Repair

Surgical reattachment of a torn Achilles tendon to restore push-off strength and walking ability. Our approach uses minimally invasive techniques when possible to reduce wound complications and speed recovery.

Plantar Fascia Release

Endoscopic or open release of the plantar fascia for patients with severe, chronic heel pain that hasn’t responded to 6+ months of conservative treatment. Performed as an outpatient procedure with guided rehabilitation.

Neuroma Excision

Surgical removal of a Morton’s neuroma when conservative treatments fail to provide relief. The procedure removes the thickened nerve tissue to eliminate the burning, tingling pain in the ball of the foot.

Tarsal Tunnel Release

Decompression surgery to relieve pressure on the posterior tibial nerve. Similar in concept to carpal tunnel release for the wrist, this procedure alleviates numbness, tingling, and burning pain in the foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a podiatrist?

If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).

What does treatment cost?

Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.

How quickly can I get an appointment?

Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.

What is Foot pain?

Foot pain is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.

Symptoms and warning signs

Common signs of foot pain include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.

Conservative treatment options

Most cases of foot pain respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.

Recovery timeline and prevention

Recovery from foot pain varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.