Medically Reviewed | Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan
Quick Answer:
Quick Answer: Balance Foot & Ankle serves Ore Lake and Hamburg Township patients at our Howell office, just 10–12 miles north. Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive podiatric care for the Ore Lake area including heel pain, toenail fungus, custom orthotics, sports injuries, and diabetic foot management. Most insurance accepted — call to schedule.

Foot & Ankle Care for Ore Lake, Michigan
Ore Lake and the surrounding Hamburg Township community in Livingston County have excellent access to specialized podiatric care at Balance Foot & Ankle’s Howell office, just 10–12 miles north. Dr. Tom Biernacki provides expert foot and ankle care for Ore Lake residents without requiring the long drive to Detroit-area health systems — most evaluation and treatment needs are addressed in a single convenient visit.
What We Treat for Ore Lake Patients
Our Hamburg Township and Ore Lake patients most commonly seek care for plantar fasciitis and heel pain, ingrown toenail removal, fungal toenail treatment including laser therapy, bunion and hammertoe evaluation, sports injuries including ankle sprains, diabetic foot care, and custom orthotic fabrication. Diagnostic ultrasound and digital X-ray are available on-site — Dr. Biernacki diagnoses and begins treatment in the same appointment for most patients.
Getting to Our Howell Office from Ore Lake
From Ore Lake, most patients take Hamburg Road north to M-59 (Highland Road) and then west to Howell — a quick 10–15 minute drive. Alternatively, US-23 north to D-19 (Howell Road) connects directly to our office area. Free parking and accessible entry are available. Our Howell office is the most convenient podiatric option for the entire Hamburg Township area.
Livingston County’s Lake Community
Ore Lake is one of Livingston County’s recreational lakes, with a community of boaters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Active lake lifestyles create specific foot care needs — water-related toenail fungus exposure, sandy terrain calluses, and foot injuries from water sports and dock activities. Dr. Biernacki is familiar with these presentations and provides practical, effective care for the lake community lifestyle.
Dr. Tom's Product Recommendations

Purely Northwest Toenail Fungus System
⭐ Highly Rated | Foundation Wellness Partner | 30% Commission
Tea tree oil-based topical system for nail fungus prevention and mild early-stage infections. Especially relevant for lake community residents with frequent water exposure.
Dr. Tom says: “Living on Ore Lake means constant water exposure. I use this to prevent fungal nails between my annual checkups with Dr. Biernacki.”
Early-stage fungal nails, prevention in water sports enthusiasts
Moderate to severe nail fungus (laser or prescription treatment needed)
Disclosure: We earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Keen Newport H2 Water Sandal
⭐ Highly Rated | Foundation Wellness Partner | 30% Commission
Water-rated sandal with toe protection, arch support, and drainage. Dr. Biernacki recommends for lake and water sport activities — protects feet from dock cuts, rocks, and unsanitary water exposure.
Dr. Tom says: “Dr. Biernacki recommended water shoes for Ore Lake activities after I cut my foot on a dock. These Keens are perfect.”
Lake activities, boating, water sports, dock walking
Formal or athletic use — these are purpose-built water shoes
Disclosure: We earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
✅ Pros / Benefits
- 10–12 miles from Ore Lake — one of the closest expert podiatric practices in Livingston County
- Laser toenail fungus treatment available — relevant for lake community patients
- Same-visit X-ray, ultrasound, and minor procedures
- New patients typically seen within the week
❌ Cons / Risks
- Howell office location — drive north from Hamburg Township area required
- Seasonal scheduling: summer months and fall may have longer new-patient waits
Dr. Tom Biernacki’s Recommendation
Hamburg Township and the lake communities have a great mix of families and outdoor enthusiasts. Water exposure creates specific foot care challenges — fungal nails, lacerations, skin maceration — and I enjoy treating the lake-lifestyle patients from Ore Lake and the surrounding area.
— Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Frequently Asked Questions
How close is your Howell office to Ore Lake?
Our Howell office is approximately 10–12 miles north of Ore Lake — typically a 12–15 minute drive via Hamburg Road and M-59.
Do you treat fungal toenails from lake water exposure?
Yes — fungal nail infections are very common in communities with lake and pool exposure. We offer topical, oral, and laser treatment options depending on severity.
Can you treat a foot laceration from a dock or underwater hazard?
Yes — foot lacerations from docks, rocks, and underwater objects are treated urgently. Call us immediately for any wound with significant bleeding, foreign body possibility, or signs of infection.
Do you accept Medicare for Ore Lake patients?
Yes — we accept Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans for Livingston County patients. Call to verify your specific plan.
Michigan Foot Pain? See Dr. Biernacki In Person
4.9★ rated | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Same-week appointments · Howell & Bloomfield Hills
📞 (810) 206-1402 Book Online →Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon 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 reached over one million views.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management (PubMed)
- Plantar Fasciitis (APMA)
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
- Heel Pain (APMA)