Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Online Booking 24/7
Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Township. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, you can book online 24/7.
Book online 24/7. (810) 206-1402
VitaMedica Arnica Gel
Arnica gel plus 15 plant compounds for sore feet, plantar fasciitis flares and post-activity soreness. Apply a thin layer to the sore area.
Shop VitaMedica Arnica Gel →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.
Your First Visit to Balance Foot & Ankle
If you have never seen a podiatrist before, knowing what to expect can ease any concerns. Whether you are visiting our Howell or Bloomfield Township office, here is a complete guide to your first appointment at Balance Foot & Ankle.
Before Your Visit
Bring your insurance card and a photo ID. Our staff will verify your coverage when you arrive. Bring a list of medications including over-the-counter supplements. Wear or bring the shoes you wear most often — your podiatrist will evaluate their fit and support. Write down your questions. No question is too small. Our doctors take time to answer everything thoroughly.
During Your Appointment
Medical history review — your podiatrist will ask about your foot complaint, medical history, medications, and lifestyle. Be specific about when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily activities.
Physical examination — your feet, ankles, and lower legs will be thoroughly examined. The doctor will assess skin condition, nail health, joint range of motion, muscle strength, and biomechanics.
Diagnostic imaging — if needed, we offer in-office digital X-ray and diagnostic ultrasound for immediate results. No separate imaging appointment needed.
Diagnosis and treatment plan — your podiatrist will explain what is causing your symptoms and outline a clear treatment plan. This may include conservative treatments, custom orthotics, medication, or in some cases, a discussion about surgical options.
How Long Does the First Visit Take?
Plan for approximately 30-45 minutes for your initial visit. This allows time for a thorough evaluation, any necessary imaging, and a detailed discussion of your treatment options.
After Your Visit
You will leave with a clear understanding of your diagnosis, a treatment plan with specific next steps, any prescriptions or referrals needed, and a follow-up appointment if appropriate. We also provide written instructions and educational materials for your specific condition.
Related Reading
Ready to Schedule Your First Visit?
Book online 24/7. New patients always welcome.
Howell: 4330 E Grand River • Bloomfield: 43494 Woodward Ave #208
Explore Our Treatment Options
At Balance Foot & Ankle, our board-certified podiatrists treat a full range of foot and ankle conditions at our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices.
Related treatments: Plantar Fasciitis · Custom Orthotics · Ingrown Toenails
Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
Get Directions →
Bloomfield Township Office
43494 Woodward Ave, Suite 208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Get Directions →
Products to Bring or Use Before Your First Visit
Coming prepared to your first podiatry appointment helps your doctor assess your foot health accurately. Many patients find it helpful to already have supportive orthotics or compression socks as part of their baseline foot care routine.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Visit our new patient information page for everything you need to know before your appointment, or explore our insurance and costs guide.
Ready to Book Your First Appointment?
New patients welcome — book online 24/7 in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 Stars | 1,200+ Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Online Booking 24/7
Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Township. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, you can book online 24/7.
Book online 24/7. (810) 206-1402
VitaMedica Arnica Gel
Arnica gel plus 15 plant compounds for sore feet, plantar fasciitis flares and post-activity soreness. Apply a thin layer to the sore area.
Shop VitaMedica Arnica Gel →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.
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
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
Most insurance plans do not require a referral to see a podiatrist. You can call Balance Foot & Ankle directly at (810) 206-1402 to schedule. Our staff will verify your specific insurance requirements.
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.