Best Shoes for Bunions 2026: Wide Toe Box | Podiatrist
Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM picks the best shoes for bunions — wide toe box, zero-drop and bunion-friendly designs ranked by pain relief and comfort. Howell
big toe
Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist treats big toe pain and conditions with expert care to restore comfort and mobility.
Bunion Reversal Without Surgery 2026 | Podiatrist Guide
Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM explains what can and cannot reverse a bunion without surgery — splints, orthotics and footwear slow progression but only surgery
Big Toe Knuckle Pain: Causes & Treatment | DPM
Big Toe Knuckle Pain: 7 Causes at the 1st MTP Joint With Different Treatments The 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint — the “big toe knuckle” — is one of the most frequently injured and inflamed joints in the body. It bears 40-60% of body weight during the push-off phase of walking and up to 300% of … Read more
Little Toe Pain: Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment | DPM
Little toe pain has 5 causes — tailor’s bunion, stress fracture, corn, peroneal tendon avulsion, and Iselin disease in adolescents. Michigan podiatrist explains the one-finger palpation test that localizes the pain source and the treatment that is specific to each cause.
Middle Toe Pain: 7 Causes & Best Treatment | DPM
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon · Balance Foot & Ankle · (810) 206-1402 Last reviewed: May 2026 Middle Toe Pain: 7 Causes Organized by Exact Location and Toe Affected Pain in the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th toe (the “middle toes”) has a distinct differential diagnosis from pain … Read more
Big Toe Joint Fusion Recovery Time: What to Expect | DPM
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & AnkleLast reviewed: May 2026 Quick answer: Big toe joint fusion recovery takes approximately 3–4 months for most patients. The first 6 weeks require a surgical boot or cast with limited weight-bearing. Bone fusion is confirmed on X-ray at 8–10 weeks. Return … Read more
Broken Big Toe: 5 Signs You Need an X-Ray (Not Just Buddy Tape)
A broken big toe requires buddy-taping and a stiff-soled shoe — not a cast — unless the joint or physis is involved. Michigan podiatrist explains the X-ray findings that change treatment from conservative to surgical, and the return-to-running timeline that prevents refracture.
Sesamoiditis Taping Technique: Step-by-Step Guide | DPM
Sesamoiditis taping works by offloading the sesamoid bones under the big toe joint — but the taping technique used by most athletes only restricts motion without actually reducing bone pressure. Michigan podiatrist explains the correct pad placement and J-strip technique that cuts sesamoid load by 40%.
Can You Walk Without a Big Toe (or Toes)?
The big toe plays a critical role in balance and walking. Michigan podiatrists explain what happens when the big toe is amputated and how patients adapt
How Much Does Hammertoe Surgery Cost in Michigan? 2026 Pricing Guide
MICHIGAN PODIATRIST INSIGHT The most important clinical decision with Hammertoe Surgery Cost Michigan isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402. Dr. Tom’s Top Pain Relief Picks — Dr. Hoy’s (2026) Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. … Read more