Dr. Aamir Ahmed

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Aamir Ahmed, DPM, is a fellowship-trained, board-eligible foot and ankle surgeon with extensive training in reconstructive surgery. He currently sees patients at Ankle & Foot Doctors of New Jersey in Millburn, Westfield, and Union, New Jersey.

Dr. Ahmed earned his medical degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine after graduating cum laude with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biomedical engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He completed his three-year surgical residency at St. Mary’s General Hospital in Passaic, New Jersey, where he gained surgical experience in adult foot and ankle reconstruction, trauma, arthritic joints, Achilles tendon reconstruction, arthroscopy, Charcot neuroarthropathy, and diabetic limb salvage, with advanced training techniques in wound care.

The following year, Dr. Ahmed went on to complete a pediatric foot and ankle fellowship at The Pediatric Orthopedic Center in Cedar Knolls, New Jersey, under the mentorships of Dr. Mark Solomon and Dr. Mark Rieger. There, he gained experience treating children with foot and ankle congenital deformities, sprains, fractures, growth plate injuries, as well as sports and dance injuries. Some pediatric conditions that Dr. Ahmed has managed and treated include equinovarus deformities (clubfoot), toe walkers, in-toeing, flatfoot, high arch foot, ankle sprains/fractures, and brachymetatarsia.

His fellowship also included advanced and specialized training in minimally invasive foot and ankle surgical techniques, including minimally invasive bunion surgery and gradual deformity correction with the Ilizarov hexapod external fixator. With such a vast background, Dr. Ahmed is well-equipped to treat foot and ankle conditions for all ages.

Dr. Ahmed is also active in training the next generation of foot and ankle surgeons, educating and mentoring podiatric residents at Saint Barnabas Medical Center.

His hobbies include playing sports, fitness, and nutrition, and spending time with his family and newborn daughter. As a big foodie, Dr. Ahmed enjoys eating out with family and friends.

Dr. Machili Adrien

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Machli Adrien, DPM, is a highly-skilled podiatrist at Ankle & Foot Doctors of New Jersey, with offices in Millburn, Livingston, Union, Springfield, Florham Park, Short Hills, West Orange, Maplewood, and Summit, New Jersey. 

At the practices Millburn, Union, and Westfield locations, Dr. Adrien strives to provide his patients with the best possible individualized care while getting them back on their feet. Here to help with all your foot and ankle concerns, his view is no issue is too challenging to overcome. 

He specializes in sports-related injuries, minimally invasive surgery, foot and ankle surgery, and  general podiatry care. 

Before joining Ankle & Foot Doctors of New Jersey, Dr. Adrien began his career with the Orthopedic Surgery Department at Augusta University Health. While there, he also served as an assistant professor at the Medical College of Georgia, educating medical students, orthopedic residents, and sports medicine fellows in foot and ankle care. His role as an educator is one of his most fulfilling, and he is proud to continue educating residents at Saint Barnabas Medical Center.    

Raised in central New Jersey, Dr. Adrien received his medical education at Barry  University. He went on to complete his surgical training at Hoboken University  Medical Center in New Jersey.   

When out of the office, Dr. Adrien enjoys biking, swimming, traveling, and working through a good book.  

Dr. Adrien welcomes new and existing patients.

Michael Kaminsky, DPM, is a highly skilled and compassionate podiatrist on the team of providers at Garden State Foot & Ankle Specialists, which has four conveniently located clinics in Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Springfield, and Linden, New Jersey.

Dr. Kaminsky graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Delaware in Newark. He earned his medical degree from the School of Podiatric Medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he graduated at the top of his class.

He went on to postgraduate training at Hoboken University Medical Center in New Jersey. He completed his three-year residency in foot and ankle medicine and surgery and served as the chief resident in his final year of the program. During his residency, he focused on trauma and reconstructive surgery and developed a remarkable skill in fracture repair and elective reconstructive surgical techniques.

Dr. Kaminsky lives with his wife in Hoboken, New Jersey. When he’s not working with patients at Garden State Foot & Ankle Specialists, he likes to run and play tennis.

Samantha Sheppard, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist at Garden State Foot & Ankle Specialists, which has six convenient locations: Edison, Woodbridge, Plainfield, Scotch Plains, Springfield, and Linden, New Jersey. She’s highly skilled in treating all foot and ankle pathologies with both surgical and conservative treatments. 

Dr. Sheppard graduated from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, with a dual bachelor’s degree in biology and Italian studies. She earned her medical degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City, graduating at the top of her class.

Dr. Sheppard went on to complete her surgical training at the Atlantic Health System’s Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey. She served as the chief resident in her third year and developed an impressive proficiency with a variety of surgical procedures, including foot and ankle trauma, diabetic Charcot reconstruction and limb salvage, flatfoot reconstruction, application of external fixation devices, ankle arthroscopy, and all forefoot pathologies. 

Dr. Sheppard is board-qualified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and looks forward to working with new and returning patients at Garden State Foot & Ankle Specialists.

Eric Rockmore, DPM, FACFAS, is an exceptional foot and ankle surgeon, board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Serving patients at Rockmore Foot and Ankle Specialists in Hamilton and Summit, New Jersey, Dr. Rockmore brings the latest advancements in podiatric medicine to the community. 

Dr. Rockmore completed his Foot and Ankle Surgery training at Passaic Beth Israel Hospital in New Jersey. Since then, he has sought and completed advanced training throughout his career. Specializing in nerve problems such as Morton's Neuroma, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, and Peroneal Nerve Compression, Dr. Rockmore welcomes patients dealing with any podiatric ailment to the practice. 

With advanced training in modern minimally invasive techniques for bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs, Dr. Rockmore's work earned Rockmore Foot and Ankle Specialists the honor of being designated a Center of Distinction for Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction. He is also a fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

Dr. Rockmore serves as the Chief of Podiatric Surgery at RWJ-Barnabus Hamilton. He also maintains privileges at Overlook Medical Center in Summit.

Dr. Rockmore enjoys spending time with his wife, three children, and their dogs in his free time. He enjoys hiking and mountain biking on trails all over the Garden State.

Jason Jolliffe, DPM, DABPM is a podiatrist with comprehensive training in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. Dr. Jolliffe specializes in treating a wide range of foot and ankle pathologies, both surgically and conservatively. 

Dr. Jolliffe’s area of focus includes bunions, hammertoes, sports medicine, minimally invasive surgery techniques, wound care, limb salvage, and trauma and ankle replacement surgery. He is a proud New Jersey native committed to providing his patients with the highest level of care. 

After earning his Bachelor of Arts from Swarthmore College, Dr. Jolliffe continued his education at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. He later completed his residency at Morristown Medical Center, New Jersey’s top-ranked hospital. In his third year, he served as chief resident and completed multiple certifications. These certifications included the prestigious Baltimore Limb Deformity Course and the ACFAS Arthroscopy Course of the Foot and Ankle. 

He is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and an Associate member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. 

In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, watching movies, golfing, and spending time with his wife and golden retriever.

Jonathan Shalot, BS, DPM, AACFAS, is a skilled foot and ankle surgeon at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists, with locations in Hoboken, Jersey City, Bayonne, Ridgefield, & Bloomfield, NJ. 

Dr. Shalot graduated from Long Island's distinguished Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, in May of 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and a Minor in Chemistry. He obtained his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from The New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City. 

During his time in podiatry school, Dr. Shalot served as president of the Student Chapter of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and as president of the NYCPM Student Organization. He completed a three-year Foot and Ankle Surgery residency program at the prestigious Montefiore Medical Center, affiliated with the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. He was elected Chief Resident during his last year. Dr. Shalot graduated with honors from the program in May 2023, specializing in forefoot surgery, rearfoot surgery, trauma, and ankle surgery.

During his time at NYCPM and Montefiore, Dr. Shalot has authored and co-authored articles and research publications, most focusing on his interest in the Role of anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL) repairs in Chronic Ankle Instability.   

Dr. Shalot is certified in CPR and also served as a lifeguard. His interests include sports medicine, biomechanics of the foot and ankle, treating athletes, and assessing patients for orthotic therapy. He enjoys playing the guitar, working out, and swimming in his spare time. 

Specializing in foot and ankle surgery. With extensive training in foot and ankle reconstruction, Dr. Paternina is proud to serve patients at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists, with locations Hoboken, Jersey City, Bayonne, Ridgefield, & Bloomfield, NJ.

After graduating in 2008 from Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City, New Jersey, with a  Bachelor of Science in biology, Dr. Paternina enrolled in Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia. In 2014, she graduated in the top 5% of her class and completed her residency at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, a Level II trauma center. 

During her time as a resident, Dr. Paternina received comprehensive training in reconstructive surgery of complex foot and ankle deformities, including foot and ankle joint replacement, flatfoot, trauma, limb salvage, and advanced training techniques in treating difficult wounds. Her surgical abilities were so impressive that she earned the title of chief resident during her final year.

In addition to her surgical abilities, Dr. Paternina’s areas of expertise include pediatrics, sports medicine, arthroscopy, cartilage transplantation, plastic surgery, dermatology, and general foot care. She is passionate about education and has devoted her time to lectures and medical studies, both nationally and internationally. With a deep respect for medical missions that help underserved communities, Dr. Paternina often donates her time and expertise to various nonprofit endeavors. She is also affiliated with Meridian Healthcare System. 

When she is not working with her patients, Dr. Paternina enjoys traveling to new places, cycling, Zumba, kayaking, watching movies, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Kyle Yi is a fellowship trained foot and ankle surgeon who specializes in trauma and reconstructive surgery.  He is proud to serve patients at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists, with locations in Hoboken, Jersey City, Bayonne, Ridgefield & Bloomfield, NJ. 

He graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and continued his education at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA, where he obtained his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). 

Dr. Yi then began his surgical training at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.  He was selected to serve as Chief Resident during his final year and graduated with credentials from the Council of Podiatric Medical Education (CPME) to perform reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery.  In addition to surgery, he also received training in sports medicine, arthroscopy, plastic surgery, wound care and general foot care.

To further his surgical training, he spent an additional year completing a fellowship, accredited by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS), in trauma and reconstructive surgery at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines, IA.  Dr. Yi received extensive training with cutting edge technology including total ankle replacements and use of custom 3D implants in foot and ankle surgery.  

Throughout his training, Dr Yi has authored and co-authored articles and research publications focusing on ankle fractures, ankle instability, and diabetic neuropathy, with his most recent regarding a total calcaneus replacement with a custom 3D printed metallic implant.  

When he is not serving patients, Dr. Yi enjoys cooking, traveling, golfing, watching TV/movies and spending time with his friends and family.  

Patients throughout New York City can get complete podiatry care under one roof from Philip Messenger, DPM, PLLC. An experienced podiatrist, Dr. Messenger offers podiatry treatments for children, adults, and seniors. His practice, West Side Foot Care, is conveniently located in Manhattan on the Upper West Side.  

After Dr. Messenger earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics from American University in Washington, D.C., he then completed his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine at Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Messenger is board-certified in podiatric surgery and is also on the staff at Mount Sinai. Currently, Dr. Messenger works with Columbia University as their podiatric consultant for team sports.

At West Side Foot Care, Dr. Messenger uses proven modern strategies to diagnose and treat his patients, only performing surgery when absolutely necessary. Dr. Messenger utilizes a variety of diagnostic tests, including 3D scanners, vascular testing, diagnostic ultrasounds, and X-rays.

While Dr. Messenger offers routine podiatry care for patients of all ages, he also specializes in several complex issues, including gait disorders. Dr. Messenger emphasizes orthotic management of sports-related injuries and ailments of the foot and ankle. Plus, he has extensive training in surgical repair of bone and soft tissue deformities if more conservative measures aren’t providing relief.

Dr. Messenger’s goal is for all his patients to find remedies and relief from discomfort for foot and ankle problems. He strives to help his patients prevent future injuries or ailments that lead to discomfort. Dr. Messenger and his caring team at West Side Foot Care are currently accepting new patients.

Dr. Sandilya's journey in the field of podiatry began with her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Exercise Science from Rutgers University, followed by the completion of her Masters in Biomedical Sciences, also at Rutgers University. She then earned her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from The New York College of Podiatric Medicine. To further enhance her skills, Dr. Sandilya underwent an intensive 3-year residency at Morristown Medical Center, one of the most prestigious podiatric surgical programs in New Jersey. During her residency, she served as Chief of Research, demonstrating her commitment to advancing the field through innovative studies and practices. She participated in multiple advanced courses in foot and ankle arthroscopy, limb deformity, bunion correction, and external fixation. She also gave multiple academic lectures during her time in residency and continues to have an active role with the residents.

Dr. Kaitlin Dickert Gonzales believes in engaging with her patients, through kindness and respect, to provide individualized patient focused medicine. She partners with her patients to provide the highest level of timely care through integrated clinical practices, education, and compassion. Dr. Gonzales graduated from Ramapo College of New Jersey, Magna Cum Laude and went on to attend the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. During this time she was elected to the Honor Council, participated in medical mission work in Vicente Guerrero, Mexico, and was awarded the Dr. Sidney Solid Award for clinical excellence, research, and service. After completion of her doctorate she participated in a three year surgical residency at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey, serving as chief resident during her third year. In her off time, Dr. Gonzales enjoys playing with her two children, home improvement projects with her husband, and is an avid gardener.

Dr. Chudi Mgbako is one of the gifted podiatrists treating patients from the Westfield and Union, New Jersey at the Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Jersey. Dr. Mgbako specializes in foot and ankle surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics, infections, wound care, and arthroscopy.

Dr. Mgbako earned his bachelor’s degree from Pace University in New York City before completing his doctorate of podiatric medicine at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. He went on to service a 3-year podiatric medical and surgery residency at Montefiore Medical Center, also in New York. He is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the American Podiatric Medical Association, and the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Society.

Dr. Mgbako stays abreast of the innovations in minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgical techniques so that he is best equipped to provide high-quality patient care. He helps his patients with treatments that allow for quick recovery and return to normal activities as quickly as possible. Dr. Mgbako looks forward to welcoming new patients at the Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Jersey.

Lara Kozin, DPM is a highly qualified podiatrist and is excited to join the talented team at Foot and Ankle Specialists of New Jersey, where she will be welcoming patients at office locations in Westfield, Union and Morristown.

As an undergraduate, Dr. Kozin attended Tufts University in Massachusetts, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree. At Tufts, she was an All-American collegiate lacrosse player, and to this day holds four Tufts records in Women's Lacrosse. She then went on to receive her Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City. At NYCPM she continued her interest in athletics as President of the Sports Medicine Club and volunteering at events such as the New York City Triathlon.

After earning her doctorate, Dr. Kozin completed a highly selective 3-year comprehensive and rigorous surgical residency at the Hoboken University Medical Center. She had extensive training in all types of foot and ankle reconstructive surgery, trauma, elective surgery of the forefoot and rearfoot, sports medicine, pediatric flat foot deformities, diabetic limb salvage and wound care. 

As an avid athlete, Dr. Kozin has a passion for sports medicine. She specializes in traumatic sports injuries of the foot and ankle, and focuses on lower extremity pathology including achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, tendon tears, and overuse injuries. Dr. Kozin has a conservative minded approach to her treatments, but will perform surgical intervention if necessary.

Dr. Kozin is board certified by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

Dr. Kozin has participated in multiple half marathons. She loves hiking in National Parks, playing tennis, and skiing. She also enjoys movies and curling up with a good book.

Dr. Krupa Patel is a talented podiatrist who practices at the Scotch Plains and Union, New Jersey offices of the Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Jersey. Dr. Patel specializes in podiatric surgeries, diabetic foot wounds, and treatments for bunions, hammertoes, and diabetic issues including wound care, infections, and poor circulation.

Dr. Patel was an outstanding student. After earning her bachelor’s degree from New York University, she went on to complete her doctor of Podiatric Surgery and Medicine at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine, graduating at the top of her class. She won a number of awards including the ABMPS Diabetic Wound Care Award. She went on to serve her residency at the Morristown Memorial Hospital where she not only became chief resident but also performed over 1500 foot and ankle surgeries. She also completed additional published research on diabetic foot wounds and surgical treatment for bunions.

Dr. Patel is dedicated to providing excellent care to all of her patients. When she is not practicing podiatry, she enjoys reading, going to the movies, and spending time with her husband and two sons.

Dr. Obinna Mgbako is a gifted podiatrist providing care to patients at the Scotch Plains & Union, New Jersey offices of the Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Jersey. Dr. Mgbako is certified to treat all foot and ankle pathology and specializes in lower leg limb salvage, diabetic wound care, and reconstructive and reparative foot and ankle surgery including minimally invasive and arthroscopic techniques.

Dr. Mgbako completed his bachelor’s degree at New York University before earning his doctor of Podiatric Surgery and Medicine at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. He served his residency at the Morristown Memorial Hospital. He is a fellow of the American Professional Wound Care Association, an associate member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, and a member of the American Diabetes Association, the American Podiatric Medical Association, the American Podiatric Association of Sports Medicine, and the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management.

Dr. Mgbako takes a special interest in treating sports-related injuries and enjoys learning new insights to sports medicine, putting them into practice for the benefit of his patients.

Yu-Ching Terence Chi, DPM, is a highly skilled podiatric surgeon and part of the elite team at Foot and Ankle Specialists of NJ. He brings a rich knowledge of his field, a compassionate bedside manner, and a fluency in Mandarin Chinese to his patients in Westfield and Union, New Jersey.

Dr. Chi began his medical education at Tulane University in New Orleans, where he completed his pre-medical requisites while graduating cum laude with a degree in music composition. He earned his doctorate in podiatric medicine and surgery from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City, where his diligent work ethic and high aptitude were recognized with the president’s award for academic and clinical excellence.

Dr. Chi completed a comprehensive three-year surgical residency at Northwell-Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, and North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset. He attended to a wide variety of cases and patients during his residency, affording him the opportunity to diversify his experience and refine his skill set. He’s provided emergency care to pediatric patients with acute foot and ankle pathologies, treated patients who were suffering from various vascular diseases, and even cared for division one athletes from Fordham University as part of a sports medicine physicians team.

After completing his residency, Dr. Chi practiced in New York City, where he continued his passion for educating residents in the podiatric residency programs at Lenox Hill Hospital and the Long Island Jewish Medical Center.

Dr. Chi is board certified in foot surgery and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He has extensive training in managing all aspects of foot and ankle pathologies, including trauma, reconstructive, elective surgeries, and limb salvage. He looks forward to helping you heal!