Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI
Last reviewed: May 2026
Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle conditions across Southeast Michigan — but the most important factor in outcomes isn’t getting seen quickly. Our podiatrists explain what to do in the first 24-48 hours before your appointment that most patients skip entirely. Call (810) 206-1402 — expert podiatric care across Michigan.
Medically Reviewed | Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan
Patients from Dexter, Chelsea, Grass Lake, and western Washtenaw County have exceptional access to fellowship-trained podiatric care at Balance Foot & Ankle PLLC. Located just across the county line in Livingston County, Dr. Tom Biernacki serves the western Washtenaw County community as their convenient alternative to downtown Ann Arbor — with same-week appointments and full surgical capabilities.
The most important clinical decision with Podiatrist Dexter Chelsea Michigan Washtenaw County isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Services for Western Washtenaw County Patients
Plantar Fasciitis: Custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, and structured conservative protocols. Ingrown Toenails: Same-week permanent matrixectomy. Diabetic Foot Care: Annual exams, neuropathy testing, and wound management. Ankle Injuries & Surgery: Broström repair and reconstructive procedures. Bunions & Hammertoes: Full range of surgical correction. Custom Orthotics: Biomechanical evaluation for sport and work.
Closer Than Downtown Ann Arbor
For Dexter and Chelsea residents, Balance Foot & Ankle is often closer and more accessible than University of Michigan Health System specialists in Ann Arbor. Dexter (I-94 west to US-23 north, approximately 20 minutes), Chelsea (I-94 west to US-23 north, approximately 25 minutes). Same-week new patient appointments. All major Michigan insurance accepted. Call (810) 220-5551 or book at michiganfootdoctors.com.
Dr. Tom's Product Recommendations
On Running Cloudmonster 2
⭐ Highly Rated
Maximum cushion running shoe with CloudTec technology — popular among Dexter and Chelsea area runners managing plantar fasciitis and seeking superior cushioning for road training.
Dr. Tom says: “My podiatrist recommended On Running for my plantar fasciitis and the cushioning from CloudTec significantly reduced my heel pain on long runs.”
Plantar fasciitis maximum cushion, road running heel pain, active western Washtenaw County runners
Maximum cushion neutral shoe — not for significant overpronators needing stability
Disclosure: We earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx Insoles
⭐ Highly Rated
Maximum arch support OTC insole for plantar fasciitis — recommended for Dexter and Chelsea patients beginning treatment while awaiting custom orthotic evaluation.
Dr. Tom says: “My podiatrist recommended Powerstep Maxx for my heel pain and they provided substantial relief as a starting point.”
Plantar fasciitis OTC treatment, maximum arch support, heel pain western Washtenaw patients
OTC — custom orthotics provide superior biomechanical correction
Disclosure: We earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
✅ Pros / Benefits
- 20-25 minutes from Dexter and Chelsea — often faster than Ann Arbor specialists
- Same-week appointments without UMHS system wait times
- Fellowship-trained surgical expertise for complex cases
- All major Michigan insurance accepted
❌ Cons / Risks
- No local Dexter or Chelsea office — I-94 to US-23 to our clinic
- Surgical procedures at partner surgical centers
Dr. Tom Biernacki’s Recommendation
Dexter and Chelsea patients tell me they chose us specifically because UMHS wait times for podiatry can be very long. We see new western Washtenaw County patients within a week in most cases, and the I-94 to US-23 route is straightforward. The community is educated and health-conscious — they appreciate thorough explanations and evidence-based care.
— Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Balance Foot & Ankle from Dexter Michigan?
Approximately 20 minutes via I-94 west to US-23 north. This is often faster than reaching Ann Arbor specialists from western Dexter addresses.
Does Dr. Biernacki treat Chelsea Michigan patients?
Yes — Chelsea and Grass Lake patients regularly make the 25-minute drive via I-94 west and US-23 north. Same-week appointments available.
Does Dr. Biernacki accept Washtenaw County insurance?
Yes — Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Priority Health, and Medicare. Most western Washtenaw County commercial plans accepted.
Can Dexter patients get urgent foot care?
Yes — urgent cases including suspected fractures, infections, and acute ankle injuries are accommodated same-day or next-day. Call (810) 220-5551 first thing in the morning.
Michigan Foot Pain? See Dr. Biernacki In Person
4.9★ rated | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Same-week appointments · Howell & Bloomfield Township
📞 (810) 206-1402 Book Online →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.
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.
Find a Board-Certified Podiatrist (American Podiatric Medical Association)
Ready to Get Relief?
Same-day appointments available in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
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.