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.

Heel Pain During Pregnancy 2026 | Podiatrist

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

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

Heel Pain Pregnancy Postpartum - Michigan podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle — Heel Pain Pregnancy Postpartum treatment | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan

Quick answer: Heel Pain Pregnancy Postpartum has multiple potential causes including mechanical, neurological, vascular, and inflammatory. The most common causes we identify are overuse, ill-fitting shoes, and biomechanical imbalance. Red flags requiring urgent evaluation: warmth/redness (infection), inability to bear weight (fracture), and unilateral swelling without injury (DVT). Call (810) 206-1402.

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

The most important clinical decision with Heel Pain Pregnancy Postpartum isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Heel Pain in Pregnancy & Postpartum (Podiatrist Guide)

Quick answer: Pregnancy Heel Pain is a common complaint. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM explains why and what works.

Watch: Heel pain & plantar fasciitis treatment

Most Likely Causes

Plantar fasciitis (90% of cases), heel spurs, fat pad atrophy, Achilles tendonitis, or stress fracture.

What to Do First

Ice 15 min, supportive shoes, calf stretches, OTC arch supports. 80% of cases resolve in 4-8 weeks.

When to See Dr. Tom

Pain over 2 weeks. Call (810) 206-1402.

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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

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

AAOS: Heel Pain