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Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
In This Article
The most important clinical decision with Stop Your Clogged Stiff Arteries Blood Clot Vs Arteriosclerosis isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Related Conditions
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026
Quick Answer
A blood clot and peripheral arterial disease both threaten circulation but present differently. A clot causes sudden swelling and deep pain and needs same-day assessment; PAD builds gradually with cramping on walking and cold, colour-changed feet. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
STOP Your Clogged & Stiff Arteries [Blood Clot vs. Arteriosclerosis]
STOP Your Clogged & Stiff Arteries [Blood Clot vs. Arteriosclerosis]
🦶Blood Clot vs. Arteriosclerosis:
A blood clot, also known as a thrombus, is a clump of blood that forms and blocks a blood vessel, impeding blood flow. It can occur in both arteries and veins. A blood clot in an artery can lead to serious complications like heart attack or stroke, as it obstructs the blood supply to vital organs. 🦶
Full Video: Reverse Clogged Arteries: https://youtu.be/oNiZo0nO048
Best Artery Foods: https://youtu.be/bZKQEp2AHfc
How to know your heart is not well?
How to know your heart is not well: https://youtu.be/qx4QAX2L4Fo
10 Best Diabetic Vitamins: https://youtu.be/sPihveT3oc0
Best Diabetic Foods: https://youtu.be/jLID96VA7j0
Vitamin D, Vitamin K2 & Magnesium: https://youtu.be/esTz-_Mpm4Q
Diabetic Neuropathy [Peripheral Neuropathy]: https://youtu.be/E_0ALrqYUSM
In contrast, arteriosclerosis refers to the thickening and hardening of the arterial walls due to the accumulation of plaque made up of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances. Arteriosclerosis is a progressive condition that can narrow and stiffen arteries, reducing blood flow to organs and tissues. While blood clots can contribute to the complications of arteriosclerosis, they are not the same.
HDL vs. LDL:
HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) are two lipoproteins involved in cholesterol transport in the bloodstream. They are often referred to as “good” and “bad” cholesterol, respectively, based on their effects on cardiovascular health.
HDL: HDL cholesterol is considered the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it back to the liver for processing and elimination. High HDL cholesterol levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Regular exercise, a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and moderate alcohol consumption can help increase HDL levels.
LDL: LDL cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because it can contribute to plaque buildup in the arterial walls, leading to atherosclerosis. High LDL cholesterol levels are associated with increased heart disease and stroke risk. Diets high in saturated and trans fats, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle can elevate LDL levels.
Note that the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol and the total cholesterol level are also important factors in assessing cardiovascular risk. Maintaining a healthy balance between HDL and LDL cholesterol levels is crucial for optimal heart health. Lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a healthcare professional, can help manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are essential for personalized guidance and treatment.
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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.
Michigan Podiatric Care at Balance Foot & Ankle: Expert Treatment for Every Foot Condition
Michigan patients with any foot or ankle concern — from acute injuries and chronic pain to preventive care and high-risk foot management — receive expert podiatric care at Balance Foot & Ankle. Our fellowship-trained podiatrists provide hands-on exam plus imaging when needed, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment that addresses root causes rather than simply managing symptoms. We are committed to transparent communication: patients always understand their diagnosis, their treatment options, and realistic expectations before any intervention is undertaken.
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Bunion Treatment
Our Howell office (4330 E Grand River) serves Livingston County, and our Bloomfield Township office (43494 Woodward Ave #208) serves Oakland County. Both locations offer in-office X-ray, same-week new patient scheduling, and the full range of conservative and surgical podiatric services. We accept all major Michigan insurance plans and verify coverage before appointments — no insurance surprises at check-in. Michigan patients ready to take the next step toward better foot health can call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule today.
Medical References & Sources
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions
Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Township Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
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Same-week appointments available at both locations.
More Podiatrist-Recommended Foot Health Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.
OOFOS Recovery Slide
Impact-absorbing recovery sandal — wear after long days on your feet.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on clinical experience; prices and availability shown above update live from Amazon.
When to See a Podiatrist
If foot or ankle pain has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, home care alone may not be enough. Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics — no referral needed in most cases. Bring your current shoes and a short list of symptoms and we’ll build you a treatment plan in one visit.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township
Pros & 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
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
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 Township, 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.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
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Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.
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This single insole eliminates plantar fasciitis pain in 60% of patients within 2 weeks. The lateral wedge is the active ingredient — it stops the overpronation that causes the fascia to overstretch with every step. Pair with a max-cushion shoe for compound effect.
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
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3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot — the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.
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Choose your arch height from a wet-foot test (low/med/high). Wrong arch = re-injury. For runners, athletes, or anyone who failed standard insoles — this is the closest you can get to custom orthotics without paying $500. The carbon heel is what professional athletes use.
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
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Menthol-based natural pain relief — Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
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- Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
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Apply to plantar fascia + calves before bed. Combined with stretching, eliminates morning fascia pain. The clean formula means you can use it daily long-term — Voltaren has 30-day limits, Dr. Hoy’s doesn’t.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your circulation or nerve condition in the feet, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.
Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402
Learn about our vascular & neuropathy care → | Book online →
Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel
Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula — apply directly to the area 3–4x daily. ($20–25)
Related Care at Balance Foot & Ankle
Clinical foot and ankle services at our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices.
Get Expert Care at Balance Foot & Ankle
Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices. Board-certified podiatric surgeons. Most insurance accepted.
Ready for Expert Care?
Same-day appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI.
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
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.
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.
More questions patients ask
What is the difference between a blood clot and arteriosclerosis?
Arteriosclerosis is gradual arterial stiffening and narrowing from plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) over years. A blood clot (thrombus) is acute blockage — it can form suddenly on top of existing plaque, causing acute ischemia. In the feet, arteriosclerosis causes gradual symptom progression; acute blood clots cause sudden severe foot pain and pallor (acute limb ischemia), an emergency. Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 recognizes both conditions.
How does arteriosclerosis affect foot health?
Progressive arterial stiffening and plaque narrowing reduce blood flow to the feet, causing: cold feet, claudication, non-healing wounds, gangrene in severe cases. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township screens for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) as a manifestation of arteriosclerosis affecting foot health in all patients with risk factors.
What are the signs of a blood clot in the foot or leg?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) causes: calf pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected leg. Arterial clot causes: sudden severe foot/leg pain, pallor, pulselessness, and coldness — an emergency requiring immediate vascular intervention. Balance Foot & Ankle distinguishes these urgency levels and directs patients appropriately — DVT and acute arterial occlusion both require emergency care.
How can I prevent arteries from clogging and protect foot circulation?
Prevention: quit smoking (single most important), manage blood pressure and cholesterol with diet and medications, control blood sugar (diabetics), exercise regularly, and eat a Mediterranean diet. These measures directly protect foot blood flow. Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 emphasizes vascular health as foundational to long-term foot health.
Can supplements help prevent arterial stiffness affecting the feet?
Omega-3 fish oil, magnesium, vitamin K2, vitamin D, and CoQ10 all have evidence for supporting arterial health and reducing inflammation that drives atherosclerosis. These complement medical therapy but don't replace it. Balance Foot & Ankle discusses nutritional cardiovascular health strategies with patients managing vascular contributions to foot conditions.
Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.