★ 4.9 Stars · 1,123+ Reviews · Board-Certified Michigan Podiatrists
Foot Bracing & AFOs Howell, MI
Custom and Semi-Rigid Ankle-Foot Orthoses
Custom and semi-rigid bracing provides support, stability, and pain relief for foot drop, chronic ankle instability, diabetic neuropathy, and post-surgical recovery. Our Howell podiatrists fit and fabricate AFOs in-office.
Custom Foot Bracing Solutions
in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Foot bracing is a non-invasive solution designed to support weakened muscles, stabilize foot and ankle alignment, and aid in injury recovery. Whether you’re dealing with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, or post-surgical rehabilitation, our foot bracing service provides personalized solutions for your condition.
Request a Consultation for Foot Bracing
Accepting New Patients
Board Certified Podiatrists — Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Find Expert Foot Bracing Service at the Location Nearest You.
Howell
4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843
Book Now in Under 5 Minutes: 24/7
Bloomfield Hills
43494 Woodward Ave # 208, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Book Now in Under 5 Minutes: 24/7
2026 Top Foot Braces
You Need To See
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, we offer custom bracing options for patients in Howell and Bloomfield Hills using the latest orthopedic techniques to improve comfort, reduce pain, and restore mobility.
Watch: Best Ankle Braces: Sprains & Instability
![Insertional Achilles Tendonitis HOME Treatment [Stretches & Exercises]](https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/wp-content/cache/flying-press/d1628cf95e4e98943c1421c8033d2d0a.jpg)
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM explains the clinical basics — then covers what we do differently in our Howell and Bloomfield Hills clinics. Subscribe on YouTube for weekly walkthroughs.
When Is Foot Bracing Needed?
Foot bracing may be considered when foot deformities or injuries do not respond to conservative treatments like bracing, therapy, or medication.
Our Surgical Approach
We use minimally invasive techniques and advanced surgical procedures to correct structural issues and support optimal recovery.
Benefits of Foot Bracing and Taping
-
Pain relief
-
Improved foot alignment
-
Enhanced mobility
-
Better shoe fit
-
Long-term correction
What to Expect
We guide you through each phase—from initial assessment and imaging to post-op bracing and rehabilitation.
Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell & Bloomfield Hills?
-
Double Board-Certified Podiatrist Dr. Tom Biernacki
-
Same-day appointments available
-
Personalized foot bracing and surgical plans
-
Modern, minimally invasive techniques
-
Trusted by patients throughout Southeast Michigan
Book Your Podiatrist Visit Now
Struggling with Another Foot Problem? We Can Help.
-
Toenail Fungus Treatment (Oral or Laser)
-
Toenail Trimming -
Orthotics Fitting
-
Ingrown Toenails
-
Infected Ingrown Toenails
-
Podiatrist pedicure
-
Medical pedicure
-
Trimming of Corns
-
Trimming of Calluses, and Treatment of Pressure Blisters
-
Diabetic Foot Care & Diabetic Foot Wounds
-
Podiatrist medical pedicure
-
Extra-Depth Shoes for Patients with Diabetes. -
Prescription (Refills -
Telehealth appointments.
-
Cold laser therapy (In the office)
-
Laser Treatment Neuropathy
-
Athletes Foot, Dry Skin, Eczema.
-
Foot & Ankle Ulcer Care
-
Infection and Abscess Care.
-
Staph Infections in the Toe or Foot Treatment
-
Treatment of Plantar Warts for Your Toes and Feet
-
Foot & Ankle Injections (Steroid or Natural Solutions.) -
Management of Foot & Ankle Fractures (Walking Boots for broken toes or broken feet). -
Heel Pain (Heel Spur or Plantar Fasciitis)
-
Custom Orthotics for children and adults (In the office).
-
Over the Counter Orthotics for children and adults.
-
Gout Treatment
-
Shockwave therapy (AKA ESWT or EPAT therapy)
-
ESWT
-
EPAT Therapy
-
Senior Toenail Cutting & Toenail Trimming Services.
Insurance & Medicare Friendly
Not sure if your foot bracing need is covered? Our staff will verify in minutes.
Foot Taping Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the recovery time?
Recovery varies depending on the procedure, typically ranging from 6–12 weeks.
Will I need physical therapy afterward?
Yes, physical therapy often supports better healing and function.
Does insurance cover the surgery?
Most foot surgeries are covered when deemed medically necessary.
Will I need custom bracing post-surgery?
Yes, bracing may help stabilize your foot during recovery.
Not always. We recommend surgery only after conservative treatments fail.
Support Your Feet, Restore Your Mobility
Expert foot bracing solutions in Howell and Bloomfield Hills to relieve pain, improve stability, and help you stay active every day.
Schedule Your Foot Bracing Consultation
(810) 206-1402
Related Treatments You May Need
“The custom foot brace has been a game-changer for my ankle stability. The fitting process was thorough and the brace is comfortable enough to wear all day. Excellent care.”
— Frank C., Foot Bracing Patient
Your Expert Podiatrists
Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan
Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert podiatric care from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.
Board-certified care at both Michigan locations
Book your visit today
Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists
Foot & Ankle Bracing — Howell Podiatry
See how custom ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), lace-up ankle braces, and CAM walking boots support foot and ankle injuries, post-surgical recovery, and chronic instability conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a custom AFO and who needs one?
An ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) is a custom brace extending from below the knee to the foot. It is prescribed for foot drop, post-stroke gait disorders, tibialis anterior weakness, flatfoot deformity, and severe chronic ankle instability. Custom AFOs are far more effective than off-the-shelf braces.
Is ankle bracing covered by insurance?
Custom AFOs and DME ankle braces are covered by Medicare and most insurance plans with proper documentation of medical necessity. Off-the-shelf braces (L1900 codes) are often covered after a sprain or post-surgically. We handle all DME documentation and billing.
How long should I wear an ankle brace after a sprain?
Grade I sprains: 1–2 weeks in a lace-up brace. Grade II sprains: 2–4 weeks, then gradual return to activity. Grade III (complete tear): 4–6 weeks in a walking boot followed by a brace. Chronic instability patients may benefit from long-term brace use combined with physical therapy.
Watch Dr. Tom on Foot & Ankle Bracing
Dr. Tom walks through foot and ankle bracing — AFOs, lace-up braces, Aircast, custom orthoses — and when each is indicated.
Common Foot & Ankle Braces
These four braces cover 80% of patient needs. Dr. Tom’s recommendations for the four most common indications:
Lace-Up Ankle Brace
Chronic ankle instability — the most-worn brace. Effective for prevention during sports and activity.
Aircast Ankle Brace (Acute Sprain)
Acute ankle sprains — rigid bilateral support allows weight-bearing while protecting healing ligaments.
PTTD / Arch Support Brace
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction — medial support prevents progression to rigid flatfoot.
PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles
Works with most braces — insoles + brace is more effective than either alone for chronic issues.
Affiliate disclosure: Amazon links are affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them. We only recommend products we actually prescribe to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
Related from Balance Foot & Ankle
Foot pain — Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?
If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks of self-care, interfere with daily activity, or worsen suddenly, schedule a podiatrist evaluation. Early intervention typically shortens recovery and prevents chronic compensation patterns.
Will I need imaging or surgery?
Most foot pain cases resolve with conservative care—custom orthotics, supportive shoe changes, anti-inflammatory protocols, and targeted physical therapy. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) is reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment or when structural pathology is suspected. Surgery is rarely the first option.
Does insurance cover foot pain treatment in Michigan?
Most major Michigan insurance plans (BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, HAP, Medicare, Medicaid HMOs, United, Aetna, Cigna) cover medically necessary podiatric care. Custom orthotics may have separate DME coverage rules. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your visit.
Our podiatrists treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom. Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan offices.