Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Michigan 2026 | DPM

Quick Answer

Neuropathy typically responds to early podiatrist evaluation, conservative treatments like supportive footwear and targeted stretching, and—when needed—custom orthotics. Most patients see improvement within 4-6 weeks of starting a treatment plan. Severe or persistent symptoms warrant in-person assessment to rule out structural issues. Contact our Howell or Bloomfield Hills office for a same-week evaluation.

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Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment

Board-certified podiatrists in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI. 4.9★ rated · Same-week appointments · Most insurance accepted · (810) 206-1402.

All Services Conditions We Treat This Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Board-Certified Podiatrists

Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists · Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Updated April 2026

Board-Certified DPMs

Same-Day Appointments

2 Michigan Locations

Insurance Accepted

Quick Answer: How Is Peripheral Neuropathy Treated?

Peripheral neuropathy treatment begins with identifying and managing the underlying cause — most commonly diabetes. Your podiatrist creates a personalized plan that may include prescription medications for nerve pain (gabapentin, pregabalin, or duloxetine), custom orthotics to protect numb feet, regular foot exams to prevent ulcers, and lifestyle modifications. Early intervention is critical: untreated neuropathy is the #1 cause of non-traumatic foot amputations in the United States.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord (the peripheral nervous system). The feet and legs are almost always affected first because the longest nerves in the body travel from the spine all the way to the toes — making them the most vulnerable to injury.

When these nerves are damaged, they misfire or stop working entirely. You may feel burning, tingling, electric shock-like pain, or — most dangerously — nothing at all. Loss of protective sensation means you can step on a nail, develop a blister, or burn your foot without ever feeling it.

Approximately 20 million Americans have some form of peripheral neuropathy, with diabetes being the single most common cause — affecting up to 50% of all diabetic patients over their lifetime.

Types of Peripheral Neuropathy Affecting the Feet

Sensory Neuropathy

Affects feeling — causes numbness, tingling, burning pain, or hypersensitivity. Most common type. Increases risk of undetected injuries and ulcers.

Motor Neuropathy

Affects muscles — causes weakness, cramping, and muscle wasting in the feet. Leads to foot deformities (hammertoes, claw toes) and gait instability.

Autonomic Neuropathy

Affects involuntary functions — causes dry, cracked skin on feet (reduced sweating), poor circulation, and impaired wound healing. Often overlooked.

Mixed Neuropathy

Combination of sensory, motor, and autonomic damage — the most common presentation in diabetic patients. Requires comprehensive podiatric management.

Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy in the Feet

Neuropathy symptoms typically start gradually in both feet and progress upward — a pattern doctors call a “stocking-glove” distribution. Symptoms may include:

  • Numbness or reduced sensation — inability to feel temperature changes, pain, or pressure in the feet
  • Tingling or “pins and needles” — often worse at night while lying in bed
  • Burning or shooting pain — sharp, electric shock-like sensations even without contact
  • Sensitivity to touch — pain from bed sheets, socks, or shoes touching the feet (allodynia)
  • Muscle weakness — difficulty lifting the front of the foot (foot drop), toe curling
  • Balance problems — feeling unsteady, especially on uneven surfaces or in the dark
  • Dry, cracked skin — feet stop sweating normally, creating cracks that become entry points for infection
  • Foot ulcers — wounds that develop from undetected pressure or injury and heal very slowly

Important: The Danger of “No Symptoms”

The most dangerous symptom of neuropathy is feeling nothing at all. Complete loss of sensation means you may not notice cuts, burns, blisters, or foreign objects in your shoes. This is how small injuries progress to serious infections, gangrene, and amputations. If you have diabetes, schedule regular foot exams even if your feet “feel fine.”

Causes & Risk Factors

Peripheral neuropathy has over 100 known causes, but a handful account for the vast majority of cases we see in our Michigan podiatry practice:

Most Common Causes

  • Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) — accounts for 60–70% of all peripheral neuropathy cases. Chronically elevated blood sugar damages nerve fibers over time. See our diabetic foot care page.
  • Prediabetes / Metabolic syndrome — nerve damage can begin before a formal diabetes diagnosis
  • Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy (CIPN) — certain cancer drugs (taxanes, platinum agents, vinca alkaloids) directly damage peripheral nerves
  • Alcohol use disorder — chronic alcohol exposure is directly toxic to nerves and impairs nutrient absorption
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency — common in vegetarians/vegans, patients on metformin, and older adults with reduced absorption

Other Contributing Causes

  • Autoimmune disorders — lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)
  • Kidney disease — toxin buildup from impaired filtration damages nerves
  • Thyroid disorders — hypothyroidism can cause fluid retention that compresses nerves
  • Infections — shingles (postherpetic neuralgia), HIV, Lyme disease, hepatitis C
  • Hereditary conditions — Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other inherited neuropathies
  • Idiopathic — in approximately 30% of cases, no cause is identified despite thorough testing

Risk Factors

Your risk increases with age (especially over 55), poorly controlled blood sugar (A1C above 7%), obesity, smoking, family history of neuropathy, and certain medications (statins, some antibiotics, anticonvulsants). Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) often coexists with neuropathy and worsens outcomes — if you have both conditions, coordinated vascular and podiatric care is essential.

How We Diagnose Peripheral Neuropathy

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, we use a thorough approach:

  1. Detailed medical history — diabetes duration, medications, alcohol use, family history, occupational exposures
  2. Neurological foot exam — testing sensation with monofilament (Semmes-Weinstein 5.07), vibration perception with tuning fork, sharp/dull discrimination, and proprioception
  3. Vascular assessment — checking pedal pulses, capillary refill time, and skin temperature (neuropathy and PAD frequently coexist)
  4. Musculoskeletal evaluation — assessing muscle strength, toe deformities, gait pattern, and fall risk
  5. Skin and wound assessment — inspecting for calluses, fissures, pre-ulcerative lesions, and fungal infections that numb patients often miss
  6. Laboratory coordination — A1C, fasting glucose, B12, folate, thyroid panel, complete metabolic panel, and additional tests as indicated

For complex cases, we may coordinate nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) with neurologists to determine the exact type, severity, and distribution of nerve damage.

Treatment Options for Peripheral Neuropathy

There is no single cure for peripheral neuropathy, but a multi-pronged treatment approach can slow progression, manage pain, prevent complications, and improve quality of life. We use a step-ladder approach, starting with the least invasive options:

Step 1: Address the Underlying Cause

The most important treatment is stopping further nerve damage. For diabetic neuropathy, this means tight blood sugar control (target A1C below 7%). For B12 deficiency, supplementation. For alcohol-related neuropathy, cessation. For medication-induced neuropathy, discussing alternatives with your prescribing doctor. We coordinate closely with your primary care physician and endocrinologist to optimize systemic management.

Step 2: Medications for Nerve Pain

When neuropathy causes significant pain, several classes of medications have proven effective:

  • Anticonvulsants — Gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) are first-line treatments that calm overactive nerve signals
  • SNRIs — Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is FDA-approved for diabetic neuropathy pain and may also help with associated depression
  • Tricyclic antidepressants — Amitriptyline and nortriptyline at low doses block pain signal transmission
  • Topical treatments — Capsaicin cream (0.075%) and lidocaine patches provide localized relief without systemic side effects

Step 3: Protective Foot Care & Custom Orthotics

Preventing complications is just as important as managing pain. Our podiatric approach includes:

  • Custom orthotics — redistributes pressure away from high-risk areas to prevent calluses and ulcers. See our custom orthotics page.
  • Therapeutic footwear — extra-depth, extra-width shoes with smooth interiors to reduce friction on numb feet (often covered by Medicare for diabetic patients)
  • Regular diabetic foot exams — at least annually, or more frequently for high-risk patients. We check sensation, circulation, skin integrity, and nail health at every visit.
  • Callus and nail care — safe debridement of calluses and proper nail trimming to prevent ulceration. See our medical pedicure service.
  • Wound care — immediate treatment of any breaks in skin integrity to prevent infection and progression

Step 4: Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

Balance training, strength exercises, and gait retraining reduce fall risk — which is 15x higher in patients with peripheral neuropathy. Physical therapy can also include TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) for pain relief, desensitization techniques, and exercises to maintain muscle mass in weakening feet. We refer to specialized physical therapists experienced in neuropathy rehabilitation.

Step 5: Advanced Interventions

For severe or refractory cases:

  • Nerve decompression surgery — releasing compressed nerves at known entrapment sites in the lower extremity (ankle, tarsal tunnel) when compression contributes to symptoms
  • Charcot foot management — when neuropathy leads to progressive bone and joint destruction, we provide offloading, immobilization (total contact casting), and surgical reconstruction when necessary
  • Amputation prevention — aggressive wound care, infection management, and vascular coordination to save limbs. We partner directly with vascular surgeons and wound care specialists.

Don’t Wait Until Numbness Becomes an Emergency

Early neuropathy intervention can prevent ulcers, infections, and amputations. Our board-certified podiatrists see neuropathy patients same-day.

Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available

Or call (810) 206-1402

Daily Foot Care for Neuropathy Patients

If you have peripheral neuropathy, these daily habits can prevent serious complications:

  1. Inspect your feet every day — check the tops, bottoms, between toes, and heels for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or color changes. Use a mirror or ask a family member to help.
  2. Wash and dry carefully — use lukewarm water (test with your elbow, not your foot). Dry thoroughly between toes to prevent fungal infections.
  3. Moisturize — but not between toes — apply cream or lotion to prevent cracking. Excess moisture between toes promotes infection.
  4. Never walk barefoot — always wear shoes or slippers, even indoors. One undetected puncture wound can lead to serious infection.
  5. Check shoes before wearing — shake out shoes and run your hand inside to check for pebbles, torn linings, or foreign objects before putting them on.
  6. Wear proper socks — smooth, moisture-wicking diabetic socks without tight elastic bands. Change daily.
  7. Trim nails carefully — cut straight across, not too short. If you cannot see well or reach your feet, see your podiatrist for nail care.
  8. Control blood sugar — this is the single most effective way to slow neuropathy progression in diabetic patients.
  9. Don’t use heating pads or hot water bottles — numb feet cannot feel excessive heat, leading to burns.
  10. Schedule regular podiatry visits — at least every 3–6 months for comprehensive foot exams, more often if you have ulcer history.

Coordinated Vascular & Neuropathy Care

Peripheral neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) frequently occur together, especially in diabetic patients. Poor circulation compounds the problems caused by nerve damage — wounds heal more slowly, infections spread faster, and amputation risk increases dramatically.

At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, we don’t manage neuropathy in isolation. For complex diabetic and vascular cases in Howell, we partner directly with internal medicine and vascular specialists to ensure your feet receive truly comprehensive care. Learn about our coordinated care with Vassallo Medical Group →

This team approach means your blood sugar management, vascular health, nerve function, and foot integrity are all being monitored and treated in coordination — not in separate silos.

When to See a Podiatrist for Neuropathy

Schedule an appointment at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent tingling, numbness, or burning in your feet lasting more than 2 weeks
  • Any open wound, sore, or blister on your feet that is slow to heal
  • Color changes in your feet or toes (red, purple, black, or white patches)
  • Sudden onset of foot drop (inability to lift the front part of your foot)
  • Loss of balance or unexplained falls
  • New diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes (baseline foot exam recommended)
  • You have diabetes and haven’t had a foot exam in over 12 months

Seek Urgent Care If:

You notice a foot wound with red streaking, increasing warmth, foul odor, or drainage — these are signs of spreading infection. Diabetic foot infections can become limb-threatening within hours. Call us at (810) 206-1402 immediately or visit the nearest emergency room.

Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle for Neuropathy Care

Board-Certified Specialists

Three experienced podiatrists trained in diabetic foot management, wound care, and neuropathy assessment.

Diabetic Foot Program

Comprehensive diabetic foot exams, risk stratification, custom orthotics, therapeutic shoes, and ulcer prevention protocols.

Coordinated Care Network

Direct partnerships with vascular surgeons, endocrinologists, and internal medicine physicians for complex neuropathy cases.

Same-Day Urgent Access

Neuropathic wounds and infections don’t wait — neither do we. Same-day appointments available for urgent foot concerns.

Products That Actually Help Foot Neuropathy

These are the products we actually stock at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills clinics and hand to patients dealing with peripheral neuropathy. Each one has clinical evidence behind it — and each one has a patient it is not right for. We have included that, too, because we want you to pick well. Links below support the research behind this site; prices and availability vary.

  • PowerStep Pinnacle — Deep heel cradle + contoured arch reduces pressure points that a neuropathic foot cannot sense building up. Prevents callus-under-metatarsal hot spots that progress to ulcers. Not ideal for: rigid cavus feet — the Maxx version works better. See what we stock.
  • DASS 15–20 mmHg Compression Socks — Seamless construction + graduated compression improves microcirculation around dysfunctional small fibers. Verified safe with ABI ≥ 0.7. Not ideal for: patients with PAD or ABI <0.7 — compression is contraindicated. See what we stock.
  • Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — For the burning, tingling, “socks on at night” discomfort. Safer long-term than repeat gabapentin dose escalation. Not ideal for: patients who have not had a fasting glucose / HbA1c check — diagnose the cause, not just the symptom. See what we stock.

Not sure which is right for your foot? We fit and demo these in clinic and can pair them with the right shoe. (810) 206-1402 · book online. Same-day appointments available.

Frequently Asked Questions About Neuropathy

Can peripheral neuropathy be reversed?

It depends on the cause and how early treatment begins. Neuropathy caused by vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects can often improve significantly once the underlying issue is corrected. Diabetic neuropathy damage is generally permanent, but tight blood sugar control can stop progression and reduce pain. The key is early intervention — the longer nerves go untreated, the less reversible the damage becomes.

Why should I see a podiatrist for neuropathy instead of just my primary care doctor?

Your primary care doctor manages the systemic disease (diabetes, B12 levels, etc.), while your podiatrist specializes in protecting your feet from neuropathy’s consequences. We perform detailed neurological foot exams, prescribe custom orthotics, manage calluses and nails safely, treat wounds before they escalate, and coordinate with your care team. This partnership between your PCP and podiatrist is the gold standard for neuropathy management.

Does insurance cover neuropathy treatment and diabetic shoes?

Yes, most insurance plans cover neuropathy evaluation and treatment. Medicare specifically covers therapeutic shoes and custom inserts for qualifying diabetic patients through the Therapeutic Shoe Bill. We verify your coverage and file all claims on your behalf. Call our office at (810) 206-1402 to check your specific benefits before your appointment.

How often should I have my feet checked if I have neuropathy?

At minimum, every 3–6 months. Patients with a history of ulcers, amputations, or severe neuropathy should be seen every 1–2 months. Between visits, perform daily self-inspections at home and contact us immediately if you notice any new wounds, color changes, or swelling.

What is Charcot foot and how is it related to neuropathy?

Charcot foot (Charcot neuroarthropathy) is a serious complication of peripheral neuropathy where the bones in the foot weaken, fracture, and the foot progressively deforms — often without the patient feeling significant pain. Early signs include sudden swelling, redness, and warmth in one foot. If caught early, immobilization (total contact casting) can prevent permanent deformity. Untreated Charcot foot leads to a “rocker bottom” deformity that creates pressure ulcers and dramatically increases amputation risk.

Can neuropathy cause falls?

Yes — peripheral neuropathy is a major risk factor for falls in older adults. When you cannot feel the ground beneath your feet, your brain loses critical feedback about your body’s position in space (proprioception). Combined with muscle weakness from motor neuropathy, fall risk increases dramatically. Balance training, proper footwear, and home safety modifications are important parts of our neuropathy management plan.

⚠️ See a podiatrist for neuropathy symptoms if you notice:

  • Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet
  • Loss of balance or coordination when walking
  • Foot wounds or sores that are slow to heal
  • Sharp, stabbing pain that worsens at night
  • Difficulty feeling temperature changes in your feet

Protect Your Feet from Neuropathy Complications

Our board-certified podiatrists specialize in diabetic neuropathy management, ulcer prevention, and coordinated vascular care. Two convenient Michigan locations. Most insurance accepted.

Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available

Or call (810) 206-1402 · Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Our Michigan Locations

Howell Office

4330 E Grand River Ave

Howell, MI 48843

Phone: (810) 206-1402

Fax: 833-450-6201

Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Bloomfield Hills Office

43494 Woodward Ave #208

Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Phone: (810) 206-1402

Fax: 833-450-6317

Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sources

  1. Pop-Busui R, et al. “Diabetic Neuropathy: A Position Statement by the American Diabetes Association.” Diabetes Care. 2017;40(1):136-154. doi:10.2337/dc16-2042
  2. Callaghan BC, et al. “Diabetic neuropathy: clinical manifestations and current treatments.” Lancet Neurol. 2012;11(6):521-534. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(12)70065-0
  3. Boulton AJM, et al. “Comprehensive Foot Examination and Risk Assessment.” Diabetes Care. 2008;31(8):1679-1685. doi:10.2337/dc08-9021
  4. Singh N, Armstrong DG, Lipsky BA. “Preventing Foot Ulcers in Patients With Diabetes.” JAMA. 2005;293(2):217-228. doi:10.1001/jama.293.2.217
  5. Vinik AI, et al. “Diabetic nerve and foot problems.” Endotext [Internet]. Updated 2023. PMID: 25905370

Clinical References

  1. Callaghan BC, et al. “Distal symmetric polyneuropathy: a review.” JAMA. 2015;314(20):2172-2181. PubMed
  2. Pop-Busui R, et al. “Diabetic neuropathy: a position statement by the American Diabetes Association.” Diabetes Care. 2017;40(1):136-154. PubMed
  3. Bril V, et al. “Evidence-based guideline: treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy.” Neurology. 2011;76(20):1758-1765. PubMed

Neuropathy Treatment Cost and Insurance Coverage

Peripheral neuropathy treatment is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, and Aetna. Covered services include diagnostic nerve testing, office visits, medication management, and diabetic foot exams. Medicare covers annual diabetic foot screenings for patients with neuropathy.

Key takeaway: Peripheral neuropathy is progressive — the nerve damage gets worse over time if the underlying cause is not addressed. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow or stop progression and in some cases restore nerve function. Do not wait until numbness becomes permanent.

Advanced therapies such as MLS laser therapy may have variable coverage. Our team verifies your specific benefits before treatment. Self-pay options are available. Call (810) 206-1402 to verify coverage.

Watch: Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment by Dr. Tom Biernacki

Related Reading

WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY

4.9 ★ Rating · 1,123+ Five-Star Reviews

★★★★★

“The numbness and tingling in my feet had gotten unbearable. The neuropathy treatment program here has given me real relief for the first time in years.”

— William P., Howell

★★★★★

“Dr. Tom actually listened to my neuropathy symptoms and created a treatment plan that works. Other doctors just told me to live with it.”

— Barbara J., West Bloomfield

What to Expect at Your Appointment

1

Nerve Function Testing

Non-invasive tests to measure nerve conduction and pinpoint the severity and location of nerve damage.

2

Vascular Assessment

We evaluate blood flow to your feet to identify any circulation issues contributing to your symptoms.

3

Custom Treatment Protocol

Based on your results, we’ll design a treatment plan that may include MLS laser therapy, medication management, or nerve decompression.

4

Progressive Relief

Most patients notice improvement within the first few sessions. We track your progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Schedule Your Visit →

Get Neuropathy Treatment That Works

Advanced nerve therapy — same-week appointments available.


Book Your Appointment →

or call (810) 206-1402

Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert podiatric care from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.

Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-week appointments available at both locations.

Book Your Appointment

(810) 206-1402

Who treats you

Board-certified care at both Michigan locations

Dr. Tom BiernackiDPM, FACFAS
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Dr. Carl JayDPM, Fellowship
View bio →
Dr. Daria GutkinDPM
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Google Reviews
4.9★
Average rating
3,000+
Procedures performed
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Same-Week Appointments

Book your visit today

Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists

Howell · (810) 206-1402
Bloomfield · (810) 206-1402

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes peripheral neuropathy in the feet?

The most common causes are diabetes (accounts for 60–70% of cases), chemotherapy, vitamin B12 deficiency, alcoholism, Lyme disease, and hereditary conditions. In many cases (30%), the cause is never identified (idiopathic neuropathy). Blood tests help identify treatable underlying causes.

Can peripheral neuropathy be reversed?

Mild to moderate neuropathy from an identifiable, treatable cause (diabetes, B12 deficiency, compression) can partially reverse with treatment. MLS laser therapy has shown significant improvement in nerve function. Severe, long-standing neuropathy is often managed rather than reversed — focusing on pain relief, fall prevention, and foot protection.

What happens if neuropathy in the feet goes untreated?

Untreated neuropathy leads to progressive loss of protective sensation, increasing fall risk, inability to detect injuries, and development of non-healing wounds. In diabetic patients, untreated neuropathy is the primary pathway to foot ulceration and amputation — making annual podiatry exams essential.

Neuropathy Home Management Essentials

Neuropathy management is 80% home protocol, 20% in-office treatment. These five evidence-supported tools are what we actually recommend to neuropathy patients:

TENS 7000 Digital TENS Unit

Transcutaneous electrical stimulation — best-evidence home modality for nerve pain relief.

Check Amazon Price →

Nature Made Super B-Complex with Folic Acid

B12, B6, and folate support nerve regeneration — deficiency is a common neuropathy cofactor.

Check Amazon Price →

Alpha Lipoic Acid 600mg

Evidence-supported antioxidant — shown to reduce diabetic neuropathy symptoms in multiple trials.

Check Amazon Price →

MediPeds Diabetic Crew Socks

Non-binding, moisture-wicking socks — prevent the skin breakdown that complicates neuropathy.

Check Amazon Price →

Capsaicin Pain Relief Cream

Depletes substance P — clinically validated for painful diabetic neuropathy.

Check Amazon Price →

Affiliate disclosure: Amazon links are affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we actually prescribe to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.

Podiatrist-Recommended Products for Peripheral Neuropathy

  • Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — topical neuropathy formula with natural ingredients that address burning, tingling, and nerve pain in the feet
  • DASS Medical Compression Socks — graduated compression improves peripheral circulation and helps support nerve health in neuropathic feet
  • PowerStep Maxx — maximum cushioning reduces mechanical load on feet with reduced protective sensation from neuropathy

These are the same products Dr. Biernacki recommends in clinic. Available through our partner Foundation Wellness.

Neuropathy — Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a podiatrist for neuropathy?

If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks of self-care, interfere with daily activity, or worsen suddenly, schedule a podiatrist evaluation. Early intervention typically shortens recovery and prevents chronic compensation patterns.

Will I need imaging or surgery?

Most neuropathy cases resolve with conservative care—custom orthotics, supportive shoe changes, anti-inflammatory protocols, and targeted physical therapy. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) is reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment or when structural pathology is suspected. Surgery is rarely the first option.

Does insurance cover neuropathy treatment in Michigan?

Most major Michigan insurance plans (BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, HAP, Medicare, Medicaid HMOs, United, Aetna, Cigna) cover medically necessary podiatric care. Custom orthotics may have separate DME coverage rules. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your visit.

🤝 Our partnership with internal medicine: Managing peripheral neuropathy effectively often requires coordination between podiatric and internal medicine care. Our partnership with Vassallo Medical Group allows us to address both the foot symptoms and underlying metabolic causes in a coordinated plan. Learn about our coordinated vascular foot care →


Related: Numbness can mask a foot wound — see our diabetic wound care for same-week treatment in Howell.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.