![Skin Cancer [Don’T Ignore The Warning Signs!] | Balance Foot & Ankle](https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/uploads/2023/05/skin-cancer-don-t-ignore-the-warning-signs.avif)
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
Quick Answer
Skin Cancer [Don’t Ignore The Warning Signs!] relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp: (810) 206-1402.
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Skin Cancer [Don’t Ignore The Warning Signs!]
🦶We review the 3 types of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma & Melanoma. As Well as how to Diagnose it!🦶
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the skin cells. It occurs when skin cells undergo genetic mutations that cause them to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. Skin cancer is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. However, other factors such as genetics, certain medical conditions, and exposure to certain chemicals can also contribute to its development.
There are three major types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It usually appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, scalp, neck, and shoulders. BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It often appears as a pearly, translucent bump or a pinkish patch of skin.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer. It typically occurs on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, lips, and hands. SCC tends to grow more quickly than BCC and can spread to other areas of the body if left untreated. It often appears as a scaly, red, or crusted bump or a rapidly growing and non-healing sore.
Melanoma: Although less common than basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It can develop anywhere on the body, including areas not exposed to the sun. Melanoma usually starts in pigmented cells called melanocytes, which produce the skin pigment melanin. Melanoma may resemble an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot or an irregularly shaped, multicolored lesion. It has the potential to metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body, making early detection crucial for successful treatment.
Symptoms and Warning Signs of Skin Cancer:
New or changing moles or growths on the skin.
Moles with irregular borders, uneven coloration, or a mixture of colors.
Moles or growths that increase in size, thickness, or height.
Sores that do not heal or continue to bleed.
Itchy, painful, or tender spots on the skin.
Lesions with asymmetrical shape or uneven edges.
Spots that evolve or change over time.
Prevention and Early Detection:
Protect your skin from harmful UV radiation by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing (including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses), and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF regularly.
Avoid using tanning beds or sunlamps.
Perform regular self-examinations of your skin to check for any changes or suspicious growths.
Schedule regular skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist, especially if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer or other risk factors.
Report any concerning changes in your skin to a healthcare professional.
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DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2 separate traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and separately in Foot & Ankle Surgery. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” about himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist in Michigan. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best if you did not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Bunion Treatment
Medical References & Sources
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions
Insurance Accepted
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Howell Office
3980 E Grand River Ave, Suite 140
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Hills Office
43700 Woodward Ave, Suite 207
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
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Book Your AppointmentPros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Conservative care first
- ✓ Same-week appointments
- ✓ Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
- ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels
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Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
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About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom’s Top 3 — The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)
If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one — over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
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Get Expert Help at Balance Foot & Ankle
If this condition is affecting your daily activities or hasn’t improved with home treatment, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Tom Biernacki. We offer same-day appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills locations and accept most insurance including Medicare. Most patients are walking comfortably within 4-6 weeks of starting our protocol — conservative care first, surgery only when needed.
Call (248) 337-5500 or request an appointment online. Our team responds within 1 business hour during clinic days.
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.