Quick answer: Podiatrist Ann Arbor Michigan is a common foot/ankle topic that affects many patients. The 2026 evidence-based approach combines proper diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills practices. Call (810) 206-1402.
Medically Reviewed | Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan
The most important clinical decision with Podiatrist Ann Arbor Michigan isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Podiatry Services for Ann Arbor Patients at Balance Foot & Ankle
Balance Foot & Ankle PLLC serves patients throughout Southeast Michigan including Ann Arbor and the surrounding Washtenaw County communities. Dr. Tom Biernacki is a board-certified podiatrist with extensive training in foot and ankle surgery, sports medicine, wound care, and diabetic foot management. Ann Arbor patients benefit from a podiatry practice that combines university-level clinical expertise with personalized, unhurried care at accessible Livingston County locations.
Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan and a large academic and athletic community, meaning many patients present with conditions related to high activity levels — plantar fasciitis in marathon runners, stress fractures in soccer players, Achilles tendinopathy in cyclists, and ankle instability in tennis and basketball players. Dr. Biernacki’s sports medicine background makes him a natural fit for this active patient population, and his focus on conservative-first treatment aligns with the evidence-based values of the Ann Arbor community.
If you’re dealing with a painful bunion that’s been bothering you for years, a sudden ankle sprain that hasn’t healed properly, or a diabetic foot wound that needs specialized attention, Dr. Biernacki offers hands-on exam plus imaging when needed and a full range of treatment options from custom orthotics to advanced surgical correction. Most appointments include on-site digital X-ray so that structural diagnoses can be confirmed the same day without the need for separate imaging visits.
Common Foot Conditions We Treat for Ann Arbor Patients
Ann Arbor patients frequently present with plantar fasciitis — the most common cause of heel pain — driven by the combination of high activity levels and hard, flat Midwestern walking surfaces. Dr. Biernacki’s approach to plantar fasciitis includes a thorough biomechanical assessment, advanced shockwave therapy when indicated, and custom orthotic fabrication to address the structural causes rather than simply managing the pain. Many patients who have failed stretching protocols and steroid injections elsewhere find lasting relief with this comprehensive approach.
Toenail conditions including fungal toenails, ingrown nails, and nail trauma are extremely common and often inadequately treated with over-the-counter antifungals. Dr. Biernacki offers laser toenail treatment for fungal infections — a proven, safe alternative to oral medications — and permanent correction for chronically ingrown nails. These procedures are performed in-office with minimal downtime, making them accessible for busy Ann Arbor professionals and students.
Ankle conditions are another major focus, including chronic ankle instability from previous sprains, peroneal tendon tears, and osteochondral lesions of the talus. Many patients assume ankle problems are ‘just something to live with’ after a sprain, when in reality targeted rehabilitation combined with advanced imaging diagnosis and, when needed, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery can restore full function. Dr. Biernacki coordinates care with Ann Arbor physical therapy providers to ensure integrated, seamless rehabilitation.
How to Book a Podiatry Appointment Near Ann Arbor
Balance Foot & Ankle is conveniently located in Howell and Brighton, Michigan — both easily accessible from Ann Arbor via I-96. The drive from Ann Arbor to our Howell location is approximately 35–40 minutes, making us a practical alternative for patients who have difficulty getting timely appointments with busier Ann Arbor practices. We accept most major Michigan insurance plans and offer same-week appointments for acute injuries.
New patient appointments at Balance Foot & Ankle include a comprehensive foot and ankle history, physical examination, digital X-rays when indicated, and a full discussion of all treatment options with Dr. Biernacki personally. We believe informed patients make better decisions about their care, and Dr. Biernacki takes the time to explain your diagnosis and all available pathways — from home exercises and orthotics to the most appropriate surgical options if conservative care is not sufficient.
To schedule your appointment, call our office or use the online booking system available at michiganfootdoctors.com. Ann Arbor patients are encouraged to bring any previous X-rays, MRI reports, or records from prior treatments to their first visit so that Dr. Biernacki can provide the most informed assessment possible. We look forward to helping Ann Arbor patients get back on their feet.
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✅ Pros / Benefits
- Same-week appointments available for Ann Arbor area patients
- On-site digital X-ray for same-day structural diagnosis
- Comprehensive sports medicine focus for active Ann Arbor community
- Full range of conservative and surgical treatment options
❌ Cons / Risks
- Located in Howell/Brighton — 35–40 minute drive from Ann Arbor
- Not on the UM Health or Michigan Medicine networks
Dr. Tom Biernacki’s Recommendation
Ann Arbor is a community I genuinely enjoy serving. The patients tend to be highly educated, research-driven, and motivated to understand their conditions thoroughly — which is exactly how I practice. I don’t believe in rushing through diagnoses or defaulting to the same treatment for everyone. If you’re an Ann Arbor patient looking for a podiatrist who will take the time to listen, order the right imaging, and give you a real answer, I’d love to meet you in our office.
— Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Balance Foot & Ankle from Ann Arbor?
Our Howell location is approximately 35–40 minutes from Ann Arbor via I-96 West. Our Howell location is approximately 25–30 minutes from Ann Arbor.
Does Dr. Biernacki accept University of Michigan insurance?
We accept most major Michigan insurance plans. Please call our office to verify your specific coverage before your appointment.
Can I get custom orthotics at Balance Foot & Ankle?
Yes. Dr. Biernacki fabricates custom prescription orthotics on-site and can evaluate whether you need a custom device versus a high-quality over-the-counter support.
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 →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
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
American Podiatric Medical Association: Find a Podiatrist
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.
Our podiatrists treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom. Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan offices.
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.