What does a podiatrist treat?

Podiatrists specialize in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They diagnose and treat heel pain, bunions and hammertoes, tendon injuries, nerve conditions (Morton's neuroma, neuropathy), toenail disorders, skin conditions (warts, calluses, ulcers), fractures, sports injuries, diabetic foot complications, ankle instability, and perform foot and ankle surgery. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM AACFAS serve Howell, Bloomfield Hills, and surrounding Michigan communities.

How often should a healthy person see a podiatrist?

Annual foot exams are beneficial if you are over 60, are an active runner or athlete, have diabetes, have a family history of foot problems, or notice any changes in foot shape, nail appearance, or skin texture. Preventive visits catch problems early — before bunions require surgery or a small nail issue becomes an infection.

Can foot problems cause knee, hip, or back pain?

Yes — the foot is the foundation of the kinetic chain. Overpronation causes the tibia to internally rotate, increasing stress on the knee and altering hip alignment. High arches transmit shock poorly, overloading the ankle and knee. Custom orthotics that correct foot mechanics frequently improve knee, hip, and back symptoms — one of the most underappreciated benefits of podiatric care.

When should I see a podiatrist versus an orthopedic surgeon?

Podiatrists specialize exclusively in the foot, ankle, and lower leg — making them the most experienced providers for most foot and ankle conditions. For foot and ankle surgery, a DPM with high case volume is appropriate. Dr. Tom Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle procedures. Call (810) 206-1402.

Best Shoes for Hammer Toe 2026 | Podiatrist

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI
Last reviewed: May 2026

Hammer Toe Shoes Best Options - Michigan podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle — Hammer Toe Shoes Best Options treatment | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan

Quick answer: Hammer Toe Shoes Best Options 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 Hills practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

The most important clinical decision with Hammer Toe Shoes Best Options isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Best Shoes for Hammer Toes: Wide Toe Box Picks

Quick answer: Hammer Toe Shoes is a treatable deformity. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM walks you through options.

Watch: Bunion & toe deformity treatment options

Conservative Treatment

Wide toe-box shoes, toe spacers, padding, custom orthotics. Effective in flexible deformities; less so in rigid.

Surgery When Needed

Outpatient procedure, 4-6 week recovery, walking boot for first 2 weeks, regular shoes by week 6.

Schedule

Call (810) 206-1402.

⚕ Doctor Recommended

PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles

Podiatrist-recommended arch support

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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your hammertoes, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

AAOS: Hammertoe