Quick answer: How to choose a podiatrist 2 the right way: 1) prepare the area properly, 2) use the correct technique demonstrated by a podiatrist, 3) avoid the common mistakes that worsen the problem. We see complications in clinic from improper home care. The full step-by-step guide below shows the right method. Call (810) 206-1402.
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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Michigan. Last updated April 2026.
Why Choosing the Right Podiatrist Matters
Foot and ankle problems range from minor inconveniences to conditions that significantly impact quality of life, mobility, and long-term health. Choosing a podiatrist who combines strong clinical training, appropriate subspecialty experience, and excellent communication ensures you receive the most effective, evidence-based care for your specific condition. This guide helps you navigate the process of selecting a podiatrist with confidence.
Credentials and Training to Look For
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)
Podiatrists hold the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree, earned after four years of podiatric medical school following undergraduate education. Podiatric medical school includes coursework, laboratory training, and clinical rotations in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, radiology, and all aspects of lower extremity medicine and surgery—providing comprehensive preparation for podiatric practice.
Residency Training
After podiatric medical school, all podiatrists must complete a three-year surgical residency program (PMSR/RRA) at an accredited hospital. These residencies provide supervised training in forefoot and rearfoot surgery, trauma, limb salvage, and complex reconstructive procedures. Residency training is mandatory for board certification and ensures podiatrists are trained to a high surgical standard before entering independent practice.
Board Certification
Board certification by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) or the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) demonstrates that a podiatrist has passed comprehensive written and oral examinations, met practice standards, and maintains ongoing continuing education requirements. Board-certified podiatrists have demonstrated clinical excellence beyond licensure alone.
Fellowship Training
Some podiatrists pursue additional post-residency fellowship training in subspecialty areas such as reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, limb salvage, sports medicine, or pediatric foot disorders. Fellowship-trained surgeons have advanced expertise in their area of focus, which can be valuable for complex or unusual cases.
Questions to Ask When Selecting a Podiatrist
When evaluating potential podiatrists, consider asking about their experience treating your specific condition and how many cases of that type they see per year. For surgical conditions, ask whether they perform the procedure at an accredited facility and their personal complication rates and outcomes data. Ask whether they are board-certified, where they completed their residency, and whether they have any fellowship training relevant to your problem. Inquire about their approach to conservative care before surgery and what non-operative options will be explored first.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of any podiatrist who recommends surgery on the first visit without a thorough trial of conservative care (unless the condition is genuinely urgent). Vague or dismissive explanations of your diagnosis or treatment plan are a concern—a good podiatrist takes time to explain your condition and why each treatment is recommended. Offices that cannot provide X-ray or basic diagnostic services in-house may delay diagnosis unnecessarily. And always trust your instincts: a good doctor-patient relationship built on trust and clear communication is essential for successful outcomes.
Why Patients Choose Balance Foot & Ankle
Balance Foot & Ankle podiatrists are board-certified, residency-trained specialists committed to comprehensive, patient-centered care throughout Southeast Michigan. We prioritize conservative treatment first, offer advanced diagnostic technology, and perform the full spectrum of foot and ankle procedures when surgery is warranted. Our patients consistently report high satisfaction with the quality of explanation, transparency about treatment options, and attentiveness to their individual goals and concerns. We invite you to experience the Balance difference—schedule your consultation today.
Ready to Relieve Your Foot Pain?
Board-certified podiatrists serving Southeast Michigan. Same-week appointments available.
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Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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43494 Woodward Ave, Suite 208
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
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Book Your AppointmentMore Podiatrist-Recommended Foot Health Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.
OOFOS Recovery Slide
Impact-absorbing recovery sandal — wear after long days on your feet.
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When to See a Podiatrist
If foot or ankle pain has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, home care alone may not be enough. Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills clinics — no referral needed in most cases. Bring your current shoes and a short list of symptoms and we’ll build you a treatment plan in one visit.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
🏥 Dr. Biernacki’s Recommended Products (Save 30% – Foundation Wellness)
👉 PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — Podiatrist-recommended insoles for everyday foot support & pain relief.
👉 Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — Natural topical pain relief — trusted by our patients.
Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Same-Day Appointments Available
Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Hills. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, we have same-day appointment availability.
Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402
Get Expert Care at Balance Foot & Ankle
Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices. Board-certified podiatric surgeons. Most insurance accepted.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.