Board Certified Podiatrists | Expert Foot & Ankle Care
(810) 206-1402 Patient Portal

New Patient Information

Welcome to Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We make your first visit simple, comfortable, and thorough so you can get back on your feet with confidence.

Howell & Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

Book Appointment Online

Call (248) 417-4004

★★★★★

4.9/5 Patient Rating

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Same-Week Appointments

Most Insurance Accepted

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2 Michigan Locations

Schedule Your Appointment Online

Book your first visit in under two minutes. Choose your preferred location and select a time that works for you.

Book in Howell

Book in Bloomfield Hills

Or call us at (248) 417-4004 to schedule by phone

What to Bring to Your First Visit

Being prepared helps us provide the best care from the start. Here is what to have ready.

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Completed Patient Forms

Download and complete your new patient forms before your visit to save time at check-in. Forms are available on our website or at the front desk.

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Insurance Card & Photo ID

Bring your current insurance card (front and back) and a valid photo ID. We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

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Medication List & Records

Bring a list of current medications, any relevant imaging or medical records, and details about your foot or ankle condition including how long symptoms have been present.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Your first appointment typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Here is how we ensure you receive thorough, personalized care.

1

Welcome & Check-In

Our front desk team will greet you, verify your insurance, and collect your completed forms. We keep wait times short so you can see your doctor quickly.

2

One-on-One Consultation

Your podiatrist will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms in detail, and perform a comprehensive foot and ankle examination including any necessary imaging.

3

Diagnosis & Treatment Plan

You will receive a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. We explain all options thoroughly and answer every question before you leave.

Urgent Foot or Ankle Problem?

Experiencing sudden pain, a sports injury, or signs of infection? We offer same-day and next-day urgent appointments at both locations. Do not wait when your feet need help.

Call Now: (248) 417-4004

Insurance We Accept

We work with most major insurance carriers. Our billing team handles pre-authorizations so you can focus on your health.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Aetna

United Healthcare

Cigna

Medicare

Humana

HAP

Priority Health

Medicaid

Do not see your plan? Call us to verify your coverage. We also offer affordable self-pay options.

Why New Patients Trust Balance Foot & Ankle

Our doctors combine advanced training with genuine compassion to give you the very best podiatric experience.

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Dedicated One-on-One Consultation

Every patient receives unhurried, personal attention from their doctor. We listen carefully and explain everything in plain language.

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Clear Guidance on Insurance & Payments

Our billing team verifies your benefits before your visit so there are no surprises. We will always discuss costs upfront and offer payment plan options.

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Personalized, Long-Term Care Plan

We create tailored treatment plans with clear timelines, follow-up schedules, and home care instructions so you stay on track to recovery.

What Our Patients Say

★★★★★

"The entire experience was wonderful from start to finish. The staff made me feel comfortable and Dr. Biernacki explained everything clearly. I finally have a real plan for my heel pain."

- Sarah M., Howell Patient

★★★★★

"I was nervous about seeing a new doctor but the team at Balance Foot put me at ease. Short wait, thorough exam, and great follow-up care. Highly recommend for anyone with foot problems."

- James R., Bloomfield Hills Patient

Two Convenient Locations

Howell Office

3480 W. Grand River Ave, Suite 201

Howell, MI 48855

Phone: (517) 409-9494

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Book Howell Appointment

Bloomfield Township Office

43073 Woodward Ave

Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302

Phone: (248) 417-4004

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

Book Bloomfield Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Bring your insurance card (front and back), a valid photo ID, a list of current medications, any relevant medical records or imaging, and your completed new patient forms if you downloaded them in advance.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

Most insurance plans do not require a referral to see a podiatrist. However, some HMO plans may have referral requirements. Our office can help verify whether your plan needs a referral when you call to schedule.

How early should I arrive for my first visit?

We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to complete any remaining paperwork and allow time for check-in. If you have already submitted your forms online, arriving 5 to 10 minutes early is sufficient.

How long does a new patient appointment take?

Your first visit typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition. This allows time for a thorough examination, any needed imaging, and a detailed discussion of your treatment options.

What foot and ankle conditions do you treat?

We treat a full range of conditions including plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, heel pain, ankle sprains, fractures, neuromas, flat feet, and more. If it involves the foot or ankle, we can help.

Do you offer same-day appointments?

Yes. We understand that foot and ankle emergencies cannot wait. We reserve appointment slots each day for urgent cases. Call our office and let us know you need to be seen right away.

Ready to Get Started?

Your feet carry you through life. Trust them to the specialists at Balance Foot & Ankle. Book your first appointment today and take the first step toward pain-free living.

Book Appointment Online

Call (248) 417-4004

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Founder, Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon

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Dr. Carl Jay, DPM

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM

Board-Certified Podiatrist

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Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM

Board-Certified Podiatrist

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