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.

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.  

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. 

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. Jyotsna Thapar, DPM, has practiced podiatric medicine at Ankle & Foot Specialist of N.J. since 2008. She believes that the doctor/patient relationship is very special and that this relationship requires building mutual trust through frank and open discussions and confidentiality. Dr. Thapar’s door is always open, and she welcomes and appreciates patients’ questions and comments.

After graduating from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey in New Brunswick, Dr. Thapar went on to earn her doctor of podiatric medicine degree at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City. She completed her podiatric medical training at New York Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, and podiatric surgical training at the Northport VA Medical Center in Long Island, New York. 

Dr. Thapar is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (FACFAS).

She obtained additional training in the Dellon Techniques for Nerve Surgery at the Dellon Institutes for Peripheral Nerve Surgery in Baltimore. This type of procedure reverses the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

Dr. Thapar is also a published author and has lectured on podiatric vascular ultrasound. She is on the staff at three New Jersey hospitals: JFK Medical Center in Edison, Raritan Bay Medical Center in Old Bridge, and Essex Surgical Arts Surgery Center in Belleville.

Foot and Ankle Specialist Scott Hanauer, DPM, believes excellent patient care is based on a foundation of compassion, trust, and expertise. At Garden State Pain & Orthopedics, he works with his patients throughout Clifton, West Orange, Edison, and Jersey City, New Jersey, to build relationships of mutual respect in order to help them return to what they love doing as safely and pain-free as possible.

Dr. Hanauer is trained in sports-related injuries, including ankle arthroscopy, ankle ligament repair and reconstruction, fracture repair, Achilles tendonitis and tears, and tendon injury and cartilage restoration surgery. He also specializes in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, including ankle replacement, flat foot and cavus foot reconstruction, and ankle and midfoot fusions. Dr. Hanauer is also trained in advanced minimally invasive forefoot surgery, including bunion correction, hammertoe deformity correction, and arthritis.

Dr. Hanauer completed his undergraduate education at the University of Maryland, earning his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiological Sciences. He earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine Degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City, where he graduated in the top 10 of his class with Cum Laude honors while receiving numerous scholarships and awards. Dr. Hanauer went on to complete his residency at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus in Northern Virginia. 

During training, he served as Chief Resident. His training focused on complex surgical reconstruction of the foot and ankle. He is active in research and is an author of a number of publications and posters in peer-reviewed journals and national conferences. As an attending physician, he continues to play an active role in the training and education of residents.

Dr. Hanauer is a Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, an associate member of the board of American Foot & Ankle Surgeons, and a member of the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Society. He is from Livingston, New Jersey. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, golf, NYC sports, and spending time with his wife Jessica, family, friends, and his dog, Finn.

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.

Dr. Jay Bhuta

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Dr. Jay Bhuta, DPM, is a podiatric surgical expert at Ankle & Foot Doctors of New Jersey located in Millburn and Livingston of New Jersey. Dr. Bhuta specializes in both conservative and surgical treatments of ankle and foot using the most advanced tools available. He values his relationships with his patients and spends the time necessary listening to and educating his patients to help them feel more at ease about their ailments. Dr. Bhuta may focus on the ankle and foot, but he knows that each of his patients has very unique health care needs, and he designs a personalized treatment based on those needs

Dr. Bhuta treats a number of ankle and foot conditions including foot and ankle fractures, Achilles tendon ruptures, ankle sprains, bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, drop foot, foot and ankle arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, Charcot arthropathy, high arch, and flat feet. He also provides foot and ankle care for people with diabetes and cerebral palsy. Dr. Bhuta specializes in foot and ankle injuries, including sports injuries and reconstruction.

Dr. Bhuta has trained in the United States and internationally, which allows him to bring a different perspective to his patients. He received his doctorate of podiatric medicine from New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City and completed his residency and training at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey.

Dr. Bhuta is the Residency Director at Saint Barnabas Medical Center where he is responsible for training all the residents. He is very active in their education and is on top of the most current technology and treatments.

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.

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.

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.

Dr. Jordan Hoachlander, DPM, is a podiatric surgeon at Garden State Foot & Ankle Specialists. He focuses on all facets of clinical podiatry: nail care, ingrown nail procedures, biomechanical evaluations, fracture care, and sports medicine. Dr. Hoachlander joined the team after practicing for several years in Pittsburgh, PA and central NJ. He has an informed and approachable bedside manner, and strongly believes in patient-centered care. He aims to communicate with his patients clearly about their diagnosis and individualized treatment plan in a way that empowers them to be in control of their own health and well-being.

He obtained his undergraduate degree from West Virginia University, with a B.A. in Exercise Physiology and an emphasis in Aquatic Therapy. Dr. Hoachlander later attended Temple University School of Podiatric medicine where he graduated with his doctorate in Podiatric Medicine. After graduation, he completed his podiatric medicine and surgical residency training at Suburban Community Hospital in Norristown, PA.

Dr. Hoachlander is board qualified by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). He primarily focuses on reduction of bunion and hammertoe deformities, removal of arthritis of the big toe joint, cyst excision, and plantar fascia release. He also has expertise in the prevention and treatment of wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers, arterial, and venous wounds. In light of his knowledge on these topics, Dr. Hoachlander was invited to lecture at the Advances in Wound Healing Conferences in 2018 and 2020.In his spare time, he enjoys running, outdoor activities, college sports, playing with his dog, travel, community outreach, and exploring new restaurants.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, John Boulos, DPM, moved with his family to New Jersey at a young age and is proud to serve the community in which he was raised. He provides patient-centric podiatric care at United Foot & Ankle’s locations in East Brunswick, Keyport, Perth Amboy, Somerset, Old Bridge, and Bayonne, New Jersey.

Dr. Boulos completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious New York University in New York. He stayed in the city and earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. 

After graduation, Dr. Boulos went through extensive patient care training at the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth, New Jersey. During his podiatric medicine and surgery residency, Dr. Boulos became accredited in reconstructive rearfoot procedures. Because of his expertise, Dr. Boulos served as chief resident of podiatric surgery during his final year. 

Dr. Boulos continues his education and training regularly. He maintains his board certification with the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and is certified in hyperbaric oxygen therapy for wound healing. Though he has special interests in wound care, forefoot and reconstructive rearfoot surgery, and sports medicine, Dr. Boulos can help patients with all ailments that affect their lower extremities. He maintains affiliations with New Jersey’s Raritan Bay Medical Center. 

Patients of Dr. Boulos appreciate his willingness to engage with them during appointments. Dr. Boulos is known for having a meaningful discussion with his patients and creating a healthy dialogue, where patients are involved in their customized, comprehensive care. As an advocate for his patients, Dr. Boulos puts his patients first and provides the most current and inclusive treatment options available.

Because of her passion for quality health care, Christine Nashed, DPM, is known for helping her patients receive a proper diagnosis and effective treatment solution. Dr. Nashed cares for patients at United Foot & Ankle, which has locations in East Brunswick, Keyport, Perth Amboy, Old Bridge, Somerset, and Bayonne, New Jersey.

After finishing her undergraduate degree at Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey, Dr. Nashed was accepted into graduate school. She earned her Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York. 

Dr. Nashed then completed her training in podiatric medicine and surgery at the Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine at Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and served as chief resident during her final year. She became accredited in reconstructive rearfoot procedures during her residency.

Because of her dedication to quality patient care and integrative treatment solutions, Dr. Nashed continues her education. She’s board-qualified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and has specialized certification in hyperbaric oxygen therapy for wound healing. Although she has special interests in wound care, forefoot and reconstructive rearfoot surgery, and sports medicine, Dr. Nashed is dedicated to helping patients find the best treatment solution for any foot or ankle issue they may have. She strives for excellence in patient care and has a personal goal of improving the lives of each of her patients. Dr. Nashed’s professionalism and compassion are surpassed only by her magnetic personality and intuitive approach to medicine.