These are the exact products we prescribe to our 5,000+ patients annually in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI.
Quick answer:(810) 206-1402.
943,000+ people trust Dr. Tom’s recommendations on YouTube.
These are the exact products we prescribe to our 5,000+ patients annually.
🦶 The Products Behind the Secrets: What Actually Works
- PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — The secret most PF patients are missing: they stretch, ice, and rest — but never correct the arch mechanics driving the injury. PowerStep is the OTC insole I recommend first in every PF case. (30% commission)
- Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Apply arnica + camphor to the heel and arch 3–4× daily. Replaces Biofreeze in all my recommendations. (30% commission)
The biggest secret? If PF doesn’t respond in 6–8 weeks of conservative care, get imaging. You may have a partial fascial tear, not just inflammation. See treatment options → · Book → · (810) 206-1402
Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle: EPAT Shockwave for Heel Pain →
What is Plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.
Symptoms and warning signs
Common signs of plantar fasciitis include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.
Conservative treatment options
Most cases of plantar fasciitis respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.
Recovery timeline and prevention
Recovery from plantar fasciitis varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.
Ready to feel better?
Same-week appointments available in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Book Your VisitDr. Tom’s Picks: PF Relief Protocol
The over-the-counter insole I send most PF patients home with. Semi-rigid arch — holds shape unlike PowerStep Pinnacle. Heel cradle is better for plantar fasciitis specifically.
View on Amazon →
Natural arnica + menthol. Apply to heel 3-4x daily — especially before your first steps in the morning. More effective than Biofreeze based on our clinic experience.
View on Amazon →
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. As a Foundation Wellness partner I may also earn commission.
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.
🛒 Ready to Start Treatment at Home?
Dr. Tom has curated the exact products used in our clinic for home treatment:
► Dr. Tom’s PF Recovery Kit — The complete 4-product protocol (PowerStep + Doctor Hoy’s + Strassburg Sock + Night Splint). 8-week home recovery guide included.
► Doctor Hoy’s vs Biofreeze — Why we switched from Biofreeze. Arnica-based formula lasts 4–6 hours vs 45 minutes. 30% off via Foundation Wellness.
🏞 Local Resource from Dr. Tom
Safe, podiatrist-rated walking trails near our Howell office →
Does This Sound Like You?
- You have tried stretching, rest, or OTC products for 4-6 weeks with little relief
- Your pain is affecting your daily activities, work, or sleep
- You are not sure if your condition is serious or needs imaging
That is your signal to see a podiatrist.
Book an AppointmentCall (810) 206-1402 — Same-day appointments. Howell & Bloomfield Hills. Most insurance accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to cure plantar fasciitis?
Is plantar fasciitis covered by insurance?
Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?
- Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Conservative Management (PubMed)
- Plantar Fasciitis (APMA)
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
- Heel Pain (APMA)
Recommended Products from Dr. Tom
⚠️ Still in pain after trying these products for 4–6 weeks?
That’s your signal to see a podiatrist. We treat the underlying cause.
Same-day appointments · Howell & Bloomfield Hills · Most insurance accepted
🏃 Podiatrist-Approved Local Activity
Recovering from plantar fasciitis? Low-impact walking is excellent rehab.
Safe walking trails near our Howell office →Still in pain after 4-6 weeks of self-treatment?
That's your signal to see a podiatrist. Same-day appointments available.
Howell & Bloomfield Hills • Most insurance accepted
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