Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist

Seniors with Diabetes: Protect Your Feet and Prevent Complications

Daily care and professional podiatry visits can prevent wounds, infections, and serious complications.

Why Daily Foot Care Matters for Seniors With Diabetes

  • Diabetes increases risk of neuropathy, poor circulation, and slow-healing wounds
  • Small injuries can lead to infections or ulcers if unnoticed
  • Early intervention keeps seniors active, safe, and independent
Ankle Bracing Supports

Common Foot Problems in Seniors With Diabetes

A senior person in a red long-sleeved shirt and black pants is sitting in a light-colored armchair, gripping and massaging their foot with both hands due to pain or discomfort, specifically suggesting a focus on chronic foot issues like bunion pain.
  • Numbness or tingling due to neuropathy
  • Sores, ulcers, or slow-healing wounds
  • Thickened, brittle, or fungal nails
  • Dry, cracked skin or calluses
  • Redness, swelling, or infections
  • Difficulty trimming nails safely

Safe, Gentle Foot Care for Seniors With Diabetes

Seniors with diabetes often struggle with daily foot care. Our podiatrists provide thorough evaluations, nail care, and preventive strategies to protect your feet and reduce risk.

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Warning Signs Seniors Shouldn’t Ignore

• Redness, swelling, or warmth around feet

• Open sores or slow-healing wounds

• Pain, numbness, or tingling

• Cracked or infected nails

• Any sudden change in skin color or temperature

Safe Toenail Trimming Debridement

What to Expect at Your Diabetic Foot Care Appointment

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Comprehensive Foot and Nail Exam

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Assessment of Circulation, Neuropathy, and Wound Risk

custom orthotic

Personalized Care Plan for Daily Foot Maintenance

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Education on Proper Socks, Footwear, and Hygiene

senior fall prevention

Recommendations for Follow-up Visits

Trusted Footwear Recommendations From Podiatrists

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM
(Podiatrist, Wound Care, Foot & Ankle Specialist)

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, is a highly respected and experienced podiatrist proudly serving patients in Howell, Michigan, and throughout Oakland County. With a strong commitment to personalized patient care, Dr. Biernacki specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including chronic foot pain, sports injuries, diabetic foot care, and structural deformities. His practice offers comprehensive services such as routine foot care, advanced wound care, and both non-surgical and surgical solutions for complex issues affecting the lower extremities. Known for his compassionate approach and attention to detail, Dr. Biernacki works closely with each patient to create a customized treatment plan that ensures the best possible outcome.

Dr. Carl Jay DPM (Podiatric Surgeon & Foot Doctor)

Dr. Carl Jay is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and proud partner at Balance Foot & Ankle. After completing his residency at the Genesys Regional Medical Center program, he took his talents to Texas. There he covered trauma call, treated complex wounds in the Wound Care Center, and cared for a wide range of patients in private practice, from diabetic limb preservation to sports medicine.

Dr. Jay certainly enjoyed practicing in the Lone Star State. (I mean that amazing warm weather and sunshine.)Family brought him back to Michigan.

Now serving the Detroit Metro area, Dr. Jay brings advanced treatment modalities and years of surgical and clinical experience to every patient encounter. He’s passionate about delivering expert, compassionate care that helps people move better and live better.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM
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Diabetic Patient Reviews

“I’m a senior living with diabetes, and foot care has always been a worry for me. After visiting Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell, I finally feel at ease. Dr. Tom Biernacki took the time to check my circulation, trim my nails safely, and explain everything in a way I could understand. My feet feel better than they have in years. I’m so grateful for the gentle, thorough care!”

– Lylle, Bloomfield Hills, MI

“As a diabetic, I’ve struggled with numbness and dry skin on my feet. Dr. Carl Jay at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Bloomfield Hills was incredibly patient and compassionate. He spotted an early ulcer that I didn’t even know I had and treated it right away. His quick action likely saved me from a serious infection. Highly recommended for any senior dealing with diabetes.”

– Carolyn, Howell, MI

“I’ve seen many doctors over the years, but the team at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist truly stands out. They understand the unique needs of seniors with diabetes. The podiatrist checked my nerves, trimmed my thick nails painlessly, and gave me tips to prevent future issues. I left feeling cared for, respected, and much more confident about managing my foot health.”

– Mitchel, Howell, MI

Insurance & Medicare Friendly

medicare insurance

Accepts Medicare

major insurance

Accepts Most Major Insurances

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Affordable Options Available

Frequently Asked Questions

Surgery Rarely Needed

To prevent wounds and infections. Diabetes causes numbness and poor circulation, making professional and daily care essential to stay safe.

Numbness, sores, or thickened nails. Also check for dry, cracked skin, calluses, or any redness/swelling.

Open sores, swelling, or sudden temperature change. Any slow-healing wound or infection needs immediate attention.

Safe, gentle preventive care. We handle safe nail trimming, callus care, wound prevention, and recommend proper shoes/socks.

We check circulation and sensation. You receive a comprehensive foot and nail exam, risk assessment, and a personalized plan for daily maintenance.

Protect Your Feet, Protect Your Health

Daily care and professional podiatry visits keep seniors with diabetes safe, mobile, and independent