What does a podiatrist treat?

Podiatrists specialize in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They diagnose and treat heel pain, bunions and hammertoes, tendon injuries, nerve conditions (Morton's neuroma, neuropathy), toenail disorders, skin conditions (warts, calluses, ulcers), fractures, sports injuries, diabetic foot complications, ankle instability, and perform foot and ankle surgery. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM AACFAS serve Howell, Bloomfield Hills, and surrounding Michigan communities.

How often should a healthy person see a podiatrist?

Annual foot exams are beneficial if you are over 60, are an active runner or athlete, have diabetes, have a family history of foot problems, or notice any changes in foot shape, nail appearance, or skin texture. Preventive visits catch problems early — before bunions require surgery or a small nail issue becomes an infection.

Can foot problems cause knee, hip, or back pain?

Yes — the foot is the foundation of the kinetic chain. Overpronation causes the tibia to internally rotate, increasing stress on the knee and altering hip alignment. High arches transmit shock poorly, overloading the ankle and knee. Custom orthotics that correct foot mechanics frequently improve knee, hip, and back symptoms — one of the most underappreciated benefits of podiatric care.

When should I see a podiatrist versus an orthopedic surgeon?

Podiatrists specialize exclusively in the foot, ankle, and lower leg — making them the most experienced providers for most foot and ankle conditions. For foot and ankle surgery, a DPM with high case volume is appropriate. Dr. Tom Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle has performed over 3,000 foot and ankle procedures. Call (810) 206-1402.

Sprained Ankle Still Hurts Weeks Later 2026

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI
Last reviewed: May 2026

Sprained Ankle Still Hurts Weeks Later - Michigan podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle — Sprained Ankle Still Hurts Weeks Later treatment | Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan

Quick answer: Sprained Ankle Still Hurts Weeks Later has multiple potential causes including mechanical, neurological, vascular, and inflammatory. The most common causes we identify are overuse, ill-fitting shoes, and biomechanical imbalance. Red flags requiring urgent evaluation: warmth/redness (infection), inability to bear weight (fracture), and unilateral swelling without injury (DVT). Call (810) 206-1402.

MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT

The most important clinical decision with Sprained Ankle Still Hurts Weeks Later isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Sprained Ankle Still Hurts Weeks Later: Why?

Quick answer: Persistent Ankle Sprain affects millions of Americans. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM explains causes and treatment options.

Watch: Ankle conditions & surgical options

Common Causes

Past ankle sprain (most common), arthritis, tendon issues, ligament laxity, or impingement.

Conservative Treatment

Bracing, physical therapy, balance training, anti-inflammatories. Most patients improve significantly with proper conservative care.

When Surgery Helps

Brostrom procedure for chronic instability. Ankle arthroscopy for impingement. Dr. Tom performs both.

Schedule

Call (810) 206-1402.

⚕ Doctor Recommended

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In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your ankle sprains, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

AOFAS: Ankle Sprains — Clinical Guidelines