Meet Dr. Joseph Alencherry

Dr. Alencherry graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biology and Concentration in Applied Economics & Management. He earned his medical degree in Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City. He continued his education with a four year Residency at the New York Hospital Queens, where he was appointed Chief Resident in his final year. He offers foot surgery in Plainview, NY.

He has comprehensive training in elective, reconstructive and trauma surgery of the foot and ankle. He also is trained in the most advanced non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments of common foot and ankle conditions. He has an interest in treating the pediatric population and has experience treating congenital deformities. In addition, he has completed several courses and has received training in external fixation and deformity correction techniques at the Ilizarov Institute in Russia.

He is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Fellow of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics and Medicine and of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

He is an active committee member for the New York State Podiatric Medical Association and a proud member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. He serves as the Director of Clerkships for the Podiatric Surgery and Medicine Residency program at New York Presbyterian/Queens Hospital. He is also affiliated with Northshore University Hospital, Long Island Jewish Hospital, Lenox Hill Hospital, and is actively involved with their Residency programs.

PLAINVIEW OFFICE

100 Manetto Hill Road
Suite 103
Plainview, NY 11803
 1-866-FAASNY1

When Is Elective Foot Surgery The Best Option?

Elective foot surgeries are defined as operations that are scheduled and performed in advance because they are not for a medical emergency. Most surgeries are elective to best suit the patient, doctor, and hospital. They may be done for cosmetic reasons or for medical reasons to relieve pain and discomfort. Elective foot surgeries may include bunion removal, hammertoes, arthritis of the foot and ankle, and a plethora of others. Most people are hesitant to sign-up for surgery, even if it is mild. So when is the best time to schedule an elective foot surgery? How do you know it is the best option? Luckily, there is a certified foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, that can answer all of your questions and ease your concerns regarding elective foot surgeries.

Examples of Elective Foot Surgeries:

There are multiple types of elective surgeries, especially for the feet. Some of which are:

• Bunion removal: Bunions find refuge on the forefoot, taking form as a prominent, unsightly bump. Bunions lead to discomfort and possible insecurity – many that suffer undergo a removal process. Surgery entails the removal of the growth.
• Hammertoes: Hammertoe is the deformity of toes that bend upwards resembling a hammer. This condition is extremely painful and can usually only be corrected with surgery. Surgery may include tendon transfer and joint resection to properly straighten the toes.
• Arthritis of the foot/ankle: When your joints experience inflammation buildup, this is known as arthritis. Depending on your case, the extent of surgery can vary in order to repair the damaged areas. Examples of surgical procedures for arthritis can include arthrodesis and arthroscopic debridement.

When Should I See a Specialist for Surgery? – Foot Surgery in Plainview

When should you seek professional attention for surgery? If you find your conditions are worsening and home-remedies are non-responsive, we recommend you contact a podiatrist. Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York wants to get you back on your feet as soon as possible and offer an array of services to treat lower extremities. Seek attention to:

• Bunion removal: If you are experiencing persistent pain that does not improve with non-operative treatments. You should especially consider seeking professional help if your bunion begins affecting other toes by altering their alignment and causing more pain.
• Hammertoes: If you notice deformity and experience discomfort and perhaps immobility in your toes, seeking professional attention is imperative.
• Arthritis of the foot/ankle: In the case of extreme discomfort, your podiatrist may recommend surgery if nonsurgical treatment has been ineffective. Pain that causes disability is also an indication that surgery is necessary. Location and impact of the disease on your joints will determine what surgery will be executed.

How Can FAASNY Help?

If you have been experiencing discomfort in your feet, consider contacting a professional. A foot surgeon at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, offers foot surgery in Plainview, treatments, and surgeries for a variety of podiatric lower extremities. Our team understands that each injury is unique and requires the individualized attention of a competent specialist – that’s why we are here to help! Visit our website to learn more about our surgical procedures and schedule an appointment today.

Preparing For Foot Surgery

Orthopedic Foot Surgery

Patients that require orthopedic surgery on their feet have a multitude of different needs for their specific condition. The initial degree of preparation for your surgery likely depends upon the severity of the issue at hand. Yet, there exist general guidelines that anyone who is about to undergo foot surgery can benefit from. Ensuring that you are fully prepared for the surgery itself, along with your daily life after the surgery, is crucial in promoting a healthy recovery process. If you are looking for a foot surgeon, that offers foot surgery in Plainview, Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York are here to provide your orthopedic needs.  

Preparing Around The House

If you live alone, you will need to prepare your home to be more accessible for yourself while you recover from surgery. If your bedroom is upstairs, consider making a bed on the main floor of your home, and gather everything else you may need. Doing so will allow you to minimize your efforts moving around while allowing you to engage in optimal rest time. You’ll also want to fill your home with all the essential items that you may require after foot surgery.

Remember, you’ll want to prevent yourself from having to leave the house as much as possible.  It’s also imperative that you make premeditated plans for meals. Try having them ready to heat up so that you will not have to stand and cook for a prolonged period. Make sure that you have all necessary items at your close reach, limiting the number of times that you will be forced to stand up on your feet.  

Dressing After Surgery

For dressing yourself after foot surgery, you’ll want to prepare soft, loose clothing that is easy to take on and off. Aggravating your foot by dressing and undressing and can be a frustrating occurrence. Look to wear suitable clothing such as sweatpants for the next couple of weeks. It is also best to have a few changes of clothes right at your disposal so that you will not have to travel far. At FAASNY, our foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview will help you to be as comfortable as possible after surgery.  

Avoid Driving After Surgery

After foot surgery, you’ll need to arrange for someone to pick you up to take you home as you will be unable to drive during recovery. Should the need arise for you to leave the house, have someone take you to your destination. It is discouraged to be in a car a week or two after surgery because you will be unable to elevate your foot above heart level as properly instructed.   

What To Expect The Day Of The Surgery

On the day of the foot surgery, you should have all nail polish or jewelry removed and remember to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Make sure to arrive early, about two hours, to allow an ample amount of time to fill out forms and make other preparations. Your doctor will administer anesthesia before the surgery, and make sure you are comfortable before beginning. The length of the surgery will depend on what exactly is being treated.   

Foot Surgery in Plainview
When you are undergoing foot surgery, you want to make sure you are being treated by the best of the best. If you are seeking a foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview, FAASNY can help. We have very experienced and knowledgeable doctors that will ensure you are treated with the utmost care. Contact us today!

Metatarsal Foot Surgery

Knowing you’re on the verge of a surgical procedure can undoubtedly take a toll on your mental stress, but the potential long-term relief for a constant problem is too ideal to pass up. Several patients are wary of surgery because they’re aware of the elongated recovery process. But if you’ve taken the necessary preparations before hopping on the operating chair, your recovery process could be expedited. For example, metatarsal surgery treats the weight bearing portions on a person’s foot. At Foot And Ankle Surgeons Of New York, a foot surgery in Plainview center, we are trained to treat several foot-related complications you have been experiencing. After undergoing evaluation, your doctor may recommend this procedure for your discomfort.

Structurally, the metatarsal is composed of five bones in the foot. You can find them behind each toe, as they are the long bones in the foot. Typically, metatarsal surgery is recommended for the treatment of the following conditions:

• Bunion Deformity
• Tailor’s Bunion Deformity
• Painful Calluses (Found on the bottom of the foot)
• Ulcerations (that have not been healing)
• Fractures
• Rheumatoid Arthritis

The Operation

Depending upon which complication you’re dealing with, different methods could be utilized for metatarsal foot surgery. For example, calluses that are causing pain will need to be removed in conjunction with the operation. Essentially, the procedure involves the cutting of the metatarsal bone itself. During this process, the bone can be sliced all the way through; then it is elevated and held into its correct position through the assistance of a device (metal pin or screw). Patients will need to wait for a decent amount of time before your surgeon can remove the pin. Pressure will need to be withheld from the foot, likely through the assistance of crutches and other devices. Once this process is completed, your surgeon can remove the pin in a follow-up visit and the recovery stages will begin to take place.   

Before Surgery

Before the operation, patients may look to visit a physical therapist. This will give them the opportunity to learn about the equipment they may need to use after surgery and can improve strength in the foot. It’s also recommended that patients abstain from eating or chewing gum after midnight on the day of their operation. This is an essential step because the anesthesia will likely not work as effectively on a full stomach.

The Day of Surgery

Patients should arrive at the hospital wearing baggy, comfortable clothes. The foot and leg should be easily accessible, so no elastic on the bottom of the pants would be preferred. At Foot And Ankle Surgeons Of New York, a foot surgery in Plainview center, we ensure all of our clients are entirely comfortable with the procedures going to take place on the day of surgery.

After The Surgery

The days following your metatarsal surgery you might experience some uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling, bruising, leakage, and fevers. Although these might be alarming to experience, they are entirely normal. Depending on the severity of the operation, you will have to make accommodations to the foot that was operated on. Keeping pressure off of the recently operated area is crucial for a quick and full healing process.

If you’re considering a metatarsal surgery, you’ll want to visit a foot and ankle surgeon that is trusted and well experienced. Foot And Ankle Surgeons Of New York has a foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview that is well-trained and has specialists working for their team. Please contact them today if you’re searching for relief of any foot/ankle problems you are experiencing.

Fall Sports & Foot/Ankle Injuries

With the fall sports season approaching, athletes are at high risk of ankle and foot injuries. Sports like soccer, football or cross country place intense demands and stress on the foot and can lead to painful injuries. At Foot and Ankle Surgeons Of New York, our Foot Surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview can help you protect your ankle on and off the field in order for you to perform your best.

Common injuries include:

Plantar Fasciitis

• What is Plantar Fasciitis?
  • A condition where the band of tissues, the plantar fascia, supporting the arch of your foot absorbs too much stress.
• How does it occur?
  • When the tissues are strained from activities such as running, they become inflamed and cause pain at the bottom of the heel.
• How can it be prevented?
  • Relax your lower legs when running or walking.
  • Land evenly on the middle of your foot instead of your heel.

Achilles Tendonitis

• What is Achilles Tendonitis?
  • This is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon which is the largest tendon in the body located in the back of the ankle and can cause pain in athletes.
• How does it occur?
  • This injury is common among runners and can be caused by overuse such as an increase in speed, distance or hills.
• How can it be prevented?
  • Stretch and strengthen your calf muscles.
  • Gradually increase your activity.
  • Choose proper shoes.
  • Cross train.

Stress Fractures

• What is a stress fracture?
  • Unlike a fracture, a stress fracture is a small crack that forms in the bone and can occur anywhere in the foot or ankle.
• How does it occur?
  • A stress fracture occurs when a repeated impact is placed on a bone and the muscles are unable to handle the stress.
• How can it be prevented?
  • Use the right equipment/techniques.
  • Know the limits of your body.
  • Engage in strength training.

If you have questions or concerns about any of these common injuries, contact our foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview today.

Ankle Sprains

• What is an ankle sprain?
  • An ankle sprain involves the twisting of the foot which causes damage to the ligaments of the ankle.
• How does it occur?
  • When the ankle is forced from its natural position, it causes the ligaments to tear or stretch.
• How can it be prevented?
  • Stretch before physical activity.
  • Strengthen the muscles around your ankle.
  • Try to improve your balance.

At Foot And Ankle Surgeons of New York, our Foot Surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview can help athletes who suffer from foot or ankle injuries get back onto the field for their best, pain-free performance. Contact us today!

Assessing Your Foot/Ankle Deformity

There are many deformities that can develop in the lower extremities of the human body. More specifically, these deformities can be seen in the ankle or foot. People with foot or ankle deformities may have symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, bruising, stiffness in the joint, and/or difficulty walking. These symptoms can vary, depending upon which ailment you’re dealing with. Because each foot/ankle deformity is so different, you will need a professional to assist you in the evaluation of your deformity. Luckily, Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, also known as FAASNY, provide treatments for numerous conditions and deformities pertaining to the lower extremities. Contact their office to reach a foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview.

Our Foot Surgeon in Plainview is extensively trained in the diagnoses and treatments of deformities in the foot or ankle. Examples of these deformities can include but are not limited to the following:

• Achilles Tendon Disorder- This disorder can be stimulated by constant stress on the Achilles’ tendon which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.
• Brachymetatarsia– A condition where one of the bones in the foot is abnormally shorter than the others, leading to the deformed appearance.
• Bunion (Hallux Abducto Valgus)- A bulge on the side of the big toe in which the bones are misaligned. Bunions are typically inherited and can be an uncomfortable annoyance.
• Flat Feet (Adult and Children)- This is an ongoing collapsing of the arch of the foot that can occur in both adult and children.
• Gout- A disorder that occurs from too much uric-acid developing in the tissues or any of the joints.
• Haglund’s Deformity– An abnormality that may present itself as a bump on the back of the heel bone.

Once done assessing and diagnosing your foot/ankle deformity, our foot Surgery in Plainview can provide treatments for corrective measures. The treatment process will differ depending on the diagnoses. If non-surgical treatment options have shown to be ineffective, surgery may be the best method for moving forward. Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York are specialized in adult and pediatric lower extremity surgery.

Get the full assistance you need in assessing your foot/ankle deformity by contacting and booking an appointment with FAASNY.

Common Sports-Related Foot Injuries

At times, a part of staying active is feeling bodily pain. However, trying to persevere through the pain can lead to serious injury. In order to potentially avoid suffering from long-lasting complications, consider contacting our foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York immediately after an injury occurs. Our podiatrist is well versed in diagnosing and treating several common sports-related foot injuries, and we will do everything in our power to help you make a full recovery.

Common Sports Injuries

The health of your feet and ankles play a crucial role in just about every sport. They work together to allow for the athletic movements necessary to succeed. They are also put under mass amounts of pressure during activity, meaning the chances of sustaining an injury to this part of the body is always present for most athletes. You’re always one false move or awkward landing away from dealing with any of the below common injuries:

• Tendonitis.
• Stress fractures.
• Ankle sprains and strains.
• Plantar fasciitis.
• Heel spurs.
• Ligamentous issues.
• Bone breaks.

When To See Our Foot Surgeon For Foot Surgery in Plainview

As we previously stated, our team at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York knows that there are instances where athletes would prefer to play through the pain. However, waiting too long to seek out help can lead to serious medical complications that may affect your quality of life in the future. If you find yourself dealing with any of the below, please make sure to reach out to our team right away:

• Severe pain or swelling.
• Noticeable instability in your ankle.
• Inability to bear any weight on your feet.
• Dealing with burning pain, numbness, or tingling at the bottom of your foot.
• Your foot appears to be disfigured.    

Treatment

After sustaining an injury, receiving the correct treatment quickly goes a long way in making a full recovery. If less invasive treatment options do not help you find relief, we may recommend undergoing a procedure to correct the issue. Our foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview can perform a plethora of procedures based on your specific injury that will help to facilitate healing. Please contact us if you’re interested in learning more about any of the following procedures:

• Realigning bones after a break.
• Reconstructing a compromised ankle joint. 
• Repairing ligament and tendon tears and ruptures.
• Removing bone spurs or foreign bodies from the foot.

Make An Appointment  

At Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York, we want to help athletes get back to full strength after an injury. Our foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview has helped many patients with a variety of foot injuries and can do the same with you. If surgery is required to correct your ailment, you’ll want to get in touch with a team that you can trust, which is why FAASNY should be your first call. Schedule an appointment and take the first steps in getting back to the activities you love!

Stem Cell Therapy For Foot & Ankle Arthritis

Stem cells have caught the interest of many due to their ability to aid in the understanding of how certain diseases develop and the cell’s innate ability to produce healthy cells that can replace diseased cells. Stem cells can have one of two functions. Some will divide into new stem cells, a process known as self-renewal. Other stem cells can become specialized cells with a specific function, such as brain cells, blood cells, bone cells, or heart muscle cells. Their healing ability allows doctors to treat patients with arthritis through stem cell therapy. If you’ve been experiencing arthritis in your foot or ankle, a foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York can help!

Symptoms:

When your joints become inflamed, this may be the result of a condition known as arthritis. Typically, patients will experience this disease in the small joints within the foot and ankle. Some symptoms may include the following:

• Pain.
• Tenderness with applied pressure.
• Swelling or warmth.
• Redness.
• Difficulty walking.

How Do I Know If I Have Arthritis?

Aside from the symptoms, your doctor may suggest testing options in order to determine whether or not your joint is the root cause of your pain. A foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview can examine your condition by administering some of the following tests: 

• X-Ray. 
• CT Scan. 
• MRI. 
• Ultrasound.

What is stem cell therapy for arthritis?

Stem cell therapy allows for the repair of diseased or injured tissue. Due to their ability to easily divide, they can replace the diseased cells of that particular area. Stem cell therapy promotes a faster and natural healing process. This can be applied during surgery or through injections. In order to precisely see the site of injection, your foot surgeon that offers foot surgery in Plainview might use ultrasound or another form of medical imaging to ensure they are administering it to the correct area. Researchers believe that when stem cells are injected, they develop into cartilage cells, diminish inflammation, and release proteins that decrease the rate of cartilage degeneration. 

Arthritis can be frustrating, especially when experiencing it on your foot and ankle. Talk with your foot surgeon in Plainview to see if they believe if stem cell therapy for your arthritis is the best option for you. Book an appointment with our staff at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York and we’ll discuss the next steps in treating your arthritis.