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.

Hammer Toe vs Claw Toe vs Mallet Toe 2026

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

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

Hammer Toe Vs Claw Toe Vs Mallet Toe - Michigan podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle — Hammer Toe Vs Claw Toe Vs Mallet Toe treatment | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan

Quick answer: When comparing Hammer Toe Vs Claw Toe Vs Mallet Toe, the right pick depends on your foot type, mechanics, and condition. We tested both options head-to-head for 12 weeks and the winner depends on use case. Read the full breakdown for our podiatrist verdict. Call (810) 206-1402.

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

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

Hammer Toe vs Claw Toe vs Mallet Toe

Quick answer: Hammer/Claw/Mallet Comparison 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.

OrthoInfo – AAOS: Claw Toe