Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle: Board-Certified Podiatrists in Michigan

Quick answer: Why Choose Balance Foot Ankle Michigan Podiatrist is a common foot/ankle topic that affects many patients. The 2026 evidence-based approach combines proper diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

Table of Contents

1. Fellowship-Trained Surgical Expertise
2. Meet Our Doctors
3. Patient Reviews and Reputation
4. Advanced Technology and Treatments
5. Same-Day Appointments for Urgent Care
6. YouTube and Patient Education
7. Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Services
8. Two Convenient Michigan Locations
9. Insurance and Medicare Accepted
10. Our Patient-Centered Philosophy
11. Conservative-First Treatment Approach
12. Frequently Asked Questions
13. Book Your Appointment

Choosing a podiatrist is a decision that affects your mobility, comfort, and quality of life. You want a doctor who combines surgical skill with conservative wisdom, who explains your condition clearly, and who treats you as a person — not a chart number. At Balance Foot & Ankle, we’ve built our practice around one principle: every patient deserves the same thorough, evidence-based care we’d want for our own families.

Fellowship-Trained Surgical Expertise

Dr. Tom Biernacki completed two surgical fellowships — a level of training that fewer than 10% of podiatrists pursue. This double-fellowship background means expertise in both reconstructive foot surgery and advanced ankle procedures, providing patients access to techniques that many podiatric practices can’t offer. With over 3,000 surgeries performed, the surgical volume at Balance Foot & Ankle translates directly into better outcomes — research consistently shows that surgical volume correlates with complication rates.

But surgical expertise matters most when it helps you avoid surgery. Understanding what surgery can and can’t accomplish makes our conservative treatment recommendations more precise — we know exactly which conditions will respond to orthotics, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, and which truly need surgical intervention. Most of our patients never need surgery.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Founder of Balance Foot & Ankle. Double fellowship-trained in foot and ankle surgery. Over 3,000 surgeries. Creator of the Michigan Foot Doctors YouTube channel (950K+++ subscribers). Specializes in bunion surgery, plantar fasciitis, sports injuries, and complex reconstructive procedures. Board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM — Specializes in surgical reconstruction, wound care, and diabetic limb salvage. Extensive experience in complex cases requiring multi-stage surgical planning. Known for careful surgical technique and comprehensive post-operative protocols.

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS — Cleveland Clinic-trained. Associate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Specializes in bunion correction, custom orthotics, and laser therapy. Brings a patient-first approach with particular expertise in women’s foot health and minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Patient Reviews and Reputation

1,123 reviews at 4.9 stars — this isn’t a number we take for granted. Every review represents a patient who trusted us with their foot health and felt compelled to share their experience. Our reviews consistently highlight three themes: thorough explanations of diagnosis and treatment options, minimal wait times, and genuine care from the entire team — front desk through recovery.

We read every review. Positive feedback tells us what we’re doing right. The occasional constructive criticism helps us improve. This feedback loop is why our patient satisfaction has remained above 4.9 stars across more than a thousand reviews — we treat every interaction as an opportunity to earn the trust patients place in us.

Advanced Technology and Treatments

Investing in technology isn’t about having the newest gadgets — it’s about giving patients access to treatments that produce better outcomes with less downtime. Balance Foot & Ankle offers:

• 3D Foot Scanning: Digital impressions for custom orthotics — more accurate than traditional casting, with faster fabrication
• MLS Laser Therapy: FDA-cleared dual-wavelength laser that reduces inflammation and accelerates healing for plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, and post-surgical recovery
• Shockwave Therapy (EPAT): Non-invasive treatment for chronic heel pain and Achilles tendonitis when conservative measures plateau
• Digital X-Ray: On-site imaging with results in minutes — no separate imaging appointments needed
• Toenail Fungus Laser: Pain-free laser treatment for nail fungus that doesn’t require oral medications
• Biomechanical Gait Analysis: Pressure mapping and gait assessment for sports injuries and orthotic prescriptions

Same-Day Appointments for Urgent Care

Foot emergencies don’t schedule themselves. We reserve same-day appointment slots at both locations specifically for acute injuries, diabetic foot concerns, infections, and severe pain. When you call with an urgent problem, our goal is to see you that day — not send you to an ER where podiatric expertise may not be available.

This same-day commitment matters most for diabetic patients, where a 24-hour delay in wound treatment can mean the difference between a simple dressing change and a hospital admission. If you’re diabetic and notice anything unusual on your feet, call us before going to urgent care — we have the specialized equipment and training to manage diabetic foot emergencies effectively.

YouTube and Patient Education

950,000+ subscribers trust our YouTube channel for honest, evidence-based foot health education. Dr. Tom started the Michigan Foot Doctors channel because he saw patients making avoidable mistakes based on misinformation — applying Vicks VapoRub to toenail fungus, using corn removers on diabetic feet, stretching cold plantar fascia. Every video reflects what we teach patients in clinic visits, available to anyone with an internet connection.

The YouTube channel isn’t a marketing strategy — it’s an extension of our clinical philosophy. An educated patient makes better decisions about their foot health, follows treatment plans more consistently, and recognizes warning signs earlier. Watch our videos, then bring your questions to your appointment. We love patients who come prepared.

Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Services

From preventive care through complex surgery, Balance Foot & Ankle handles the full spectrum of foot and ankle conditions in-house. You won’t be referred elsewhere for imaging, orthotics, or procedures that we can perform on-site. Our comprehensive service range includes:

• Conditions: Plantar fasciitis, bunions, toenail fungus, neuropathy, ingrown toenails, hammertoes, flat feet, heel spurs, ankle sprains, stress fractures, gout, diabetic foot complications
• Treatments: Custom orthotics, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, injection therapy, wound care, diabetic shoe fitting, sports rehabilitation
• Surgery: Bunion correction, hammertoe surgery, heel spur surgery, ankle stabilization, fracture repair, tendon repair

Two Convenient Michigan Locations

Howell (4330 E Grand River Ave, MI 48843) serves Livingston County — Brighton (~10 min), Hartland (~10 min), Fenton (~20 min), Fowlerville (~15 min). Ground-floor entry, free parking, full diagnostic and treatment capability.

Bloomfield Hills (43494 Woodward Ave #208, MI 48302) serves Oakland County — Troy (~10 min), Farmington Hills (~15 min), Novi (~15 min), Auburn Hills (~10 min), Birmingham (~5 min). Elevator access, covered parking, full diagnostic and treatment capability.

All three doctors practice at both locations. See our detailed directions page for turn-by-turn driving instructions from your city.

Insurance and Medicare Accepted

We accept most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Medicare, HAP, Priority Health, and McLaren. Medicare patients receive full coverage for diabetic foot exams, therapeutic shoes, custom inserts, and routine foot care for qualifying conditions — we handle all documentation and bill directly. Most Medicare patients pay $0 for covered services.

Our insurance team verifies your benefits before your visit so you know your costs upfront. No surprises at checkout. Call (810) 206-1402 to verify your specific plan.

Our Patient-Centered Philosophy

We believe in informed patients. Every appointment includes a clear explanation of your diagnosis, all available treatment options (including doing nothing), expected timelines, and honest answers about what we can and can’t guarantee. We don’t rush appointments. We don’t use scare tactics to push surgery. We don’t recommend treatments we wouldn’t choose for ourselves.

This philosophy extends to our online presence. Our YouTube videos, blog articles, and product recommendations all follow the same principle: honest, evidence-based information that empowers you to make good decisions about your foot health — whether you become our patient or not.

Conservative-First Treatment Approach

Surgery is a last resort at Balance Foot & Ankle — not a first option. Despite Dr. Tom’s extensive surgical experience (3,000+ procedures), the vast majority of our patients are treated conservatively with orthotics, footwear modifications, physical therapy, injection therapy, and lifestyle changes. We pursue surgery only when conservative treatment has been given adequate time and the patient’s quality of life isn’t improving.

When surgery is necessary, our surgical volume means we perform procedures frequently enough to maintain peak proficiency. High-volume surgeons consistently demonstrate lower complication rates, shorter operative times, and better outcomes — this is well-established in orthopedic literature. You get the best of both worlds: a team that exhausts conservative options first, and the surgical expertise to handle complex cases when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Balance Foot & Ankle different from other podiatrists?

Three things set us apart: surgical volume and training (3,000+ surgeries, double fellowship), our education-first philosophy (950K++ YouTube subscribers built on transparent patient education), and our conservative-first approach (most patients never need surgery despite our surgical expertise). We combine high-end technology with genuine patient relationships.

How many surgeries has Dr. Tom performed?

Over 3,000 foot and ankle surgeries across his career, including bunion corrections, hammertoe repairs, heel spur removals, ankle stabilizations, and complex reconstructive procedures. This surgical volume, combined with two fellowship trainings, provides a depth of experience that directly benefits patient outcomes — including for patients who don’t need surgery.

Do you treat children?

Yes. We treat pediatric patients of all ages for conditions including flat feet, in-toeing, heel pain (Sever’s disease), ingrown toenails, warts, and sports injuries. Dr. Gutkin has particular expertise in pediatric foot conditions. We create a comfortable, non-intimidating environment for young patients.

Can I see Dr. Tom specifically?

Yes — you can request any of our three doctors when scheduling. Dr. Tom, Dr. Carl, and Dr. Daria each have their own scheduling availability at both locations. If your preferred doctor’s next opening doesn’t work for you and your condition is urgent, another doctor can see you sooner with full access to your records. Call (810) 206-1402 to schedule.

What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for 24 hours notice for cancellations so we can offer your slot to another patient. We understand emergencies happen — if you need to cancel same-day, just call as soon as possible. We don’t charge cancellation fees for the first occurrence. Our goal is to make scheduling as stress-free as possible.

Book Your Appointment at Balance Foot & Ankle

Explore our resources: Plantar Fasciitis Guide · Bunion Guide · Toenail Fungus Guide · Neuropathy Guide · Custom Orthotics · Diabetic Foot Care · Recommended Shoes · Shop Products

Watch Dr. Tom explain common foot conditions:

When Shoes Aren’t Enough — Dr. Tom’s Top 9 Orthotics

About 30% of patients I see for foot pain need MORE than a great shoe — they need a structured insole. Below: my complete 2026 orthotic ranking with pros, cons, and the specific patient I’d give each one to.

Visit Balance Foot & Ankle — Same-Day Appointments Available

Our podiatry team serves patients throughout Michigan including Howell, Brighton, and Bloomfield Hills. If you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a foot injury, we have same-day appointment availability.

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.

What is Foot pain?

Foot pain is a common foot/ankle condition that affects mobility and quality of life. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step in successful treatment. Our podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle perform a hands-on biomechanical exam, review your activity history, and use diagnostic imaging when appropriate to identify the root cause—not just treat the symptom. Many patients have been told to “rest and ice” without a deeper diagnostic workup; our approach is different.

Symptoms and warning signs

Common signs of foot pain include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness, swelling, tenderness when palpated, and difficulty bearing weight. If you experience sudden severe pain, inability to walk, visible deformity, numbness or color change, contact our office the same day or visit urgent care—these can signal a more serious injury such as a fracture, tendon rupture, or vascular compromise. Diabetics with any foot wound should seek same-day care.

Conservative treatment options

Most cases of foot pain respond to non-surgical care: structured rest, supportive footwear changes, custom orthotics, targeted stretching and strengthening protocols, anti-inflammatory medications when medically appropriate, and in-office procedures such as ultrasound-guided injections. We also offer advanced therapies including MLS laser therapy, EPAT/shockwave, regenerative injections, and image-guided procedures. Treatment is sequenced from least invasive to most invasive, and we explain the rationale at every step.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is reserved for cases that fail 3-6 months of well-structured conservative care, when there is structural pathology (severe deformity, complete tear, advanced arthritis), or when imaging shows damage that will not heal without intervention. Our surgeons have performed 3,000+ foot and ankle procedures and prioritize minimally-invasive techniques whenever appropriate. We discuss recovery timelines, return-to-activity milestones, and realistic outcome expectations before any procedure is scheduled.

Recovery timeline and prevention

Recovery from foot pain varies based on severity and chosen treatment path. Conservative cases often improve within 4-8 weeks with consistent adherence to the protocol. Post-procedural recovery may range from a few days (in-office procedures) to several months (reconstructive surgery). Long-term prevention involves footwear assessment, activity modification, structured strengthening, and regular check-ins with your podiatrist if you have a history of recurrence. We provide written home-exercise plans and digital follow-up support.