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Foot Pain and Rheumatoid Arthritis: What You Need to Know

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, 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.

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Same-week appointments available at both locations.

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(810) 206-1402

More Podiatrist-Recommended Arthritis Essentials

Cushioned Running Shoe

Sale
Hoka Men's Clifton 10 Black/White 10 Medium
  • JACQUARD KNIT UPPER
  • Lining Textile

Hoka Clifton 10 — max cushioning reduces joint impact for arthritic feet.

Wide Walking Shoe

New Balance Men's Made in USA 990v6 Sneaker
  • FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward
  • ENCAP midsole cushioning combines lightweight foam with a durable polyurethane rim to deliver all-day support
  • Reflective accents designed to catch the light
  • TPU back tab
  • New Balance MADE contains a domestic value of 70% or more. MADE makes up a limited portion of New Balance’s US sales.

New Balance 990v6 — wide toe box accommodates arthritic first-MTP (hallux rigidus).

Orthotic Insole

PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles, Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis Relief, Made in USA Orthotic Insoles, Arch Support Inserts with Moderate Pronation, #1 Podiatrist Recommended (M 14-15)
  • The Pinnacle Full length insoles for men & women provide maximum cushioning, from high activity to moderate support. The PowerStep arch support shape provides stability to the foot and ankle, helping to relieve foot pain.
  • When you spend all day on your feet, every step counts. PowerStep insoles are a podiatrist-recommended orthotic to help relieve & prevent foot pain related to athletes, runners, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs & other common foot, ankle & knee injuries
  • The Pinnacle plantar fasciitis insoles offer superior heel cushioning and arch support. The dual-layer cushioning is designed to reduce stress and fatigue, while PowerStep premium arch support is designed for plantar fasciitis relief.
  • The PowerStep Pinnacle arch support inserts for men & women can be worn in a variety of shoe types such as; athletic, walking, running, work & some casual shoes. Orthotic Inserts are ordered by shoe size, no trimming required.
  • Made in the USA & backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. PowerStep orthotic inserts for men & women are designed for shoes where the factory insole can be removed. HSA & FSA Eligible

PowerStep Pinnacle — offloads the big toe joint during gait.

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.

Arthritis Header Photo Balance Foot And Ankle - Balance Foot & Ankle

When to See a Podiatrist

Foot and ankle arthritis progresses silently — cartilage doesn’t regrow, but joint fusion, cheilectomy, and biologic injections can restore function at every stage. Balance Foot & Ankle offers the full arthritis spectrum: bracing, injections, and reconstructive surgery. Start with a consult so we can image the joint and give you a realistic 5-year outlook.

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

Recommended Products for Foot Arthritis
Products personally used and recommended by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM. All available on Amazon.
Anti-inflammatory topical for joint pain and stiffness without oral medication side effects.
Best for: Joint pain, morning stiffness
Shock-absorbing insoles that reduce impact stress on arthritic joints.
Best for: Reducing joint impact
Compression reduces swelling and supports circulation around arthritic joints.
Best for: Swelling reduction
These products work best with professional treatment. Book an appointment with Dr. Tom for a personalized treatment plan.
Complete Recovery Protocol
Dr. Tom's Arthritis Relief Kit
Daily management products for foot and ankle arthritis.
~$18
~$35
~$25
Kit Total: ~$78 $115+ for comparable products
All available on Amazon with free Prime shipping

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a podiatrist treat arthritis in the foot?
Yes. Podiatrists diagnose and treat all types of foot and ankle arthritis including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Treatments include custom orthotics, joint injections, physical therapy, and surgical options when conservative care is insufficient.
How much does a podiatrist visit cost without insurance?
Self-pay podiatrist visits typically range from 100 to 250 dollars for an initial consultation. Contact Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists at (810) 206-1402 for current self-pay pricing and payment plan options.
Medical References
  1. Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management (PubMed)
  2. Plantar Fasciitis (APMA)
  3. Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
  4. Heel Pain (APMA)
This article has been reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM. References are provided for informational purposes.

Related Treatments at Balance Foot & Ankle

Our board-certified podiatrists offer advanced treatments at our Bloomfield Hills and Howell locations.

Recommended Products from Dr. Tom

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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