It's hard to deny that we live in a world where health issues seem to be increasingly common. From allergies that baffle doctors to chronic pain that never seems to go away, it's no secret that many individuals struggle to maintain good health. Respiratory issues, reproductive complications, and other conditions add to the mix, making it clear that we're all susceptible to some kind of malady.
Unfortunately, many modern doctors still believe that throwing pills at the problem or scheduling surgery is the best way to provide long-term relief. While certain serious conditions can warrant such extreme treatments, a large percentage of Americans are looking for something far less harmful and much more holistic. They're looking high and low for a reliable, well-studied solution that doesn't require time off work or sketchy pain medications.
At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, one of the most effective and exciting treatments we've seen work for such patients is acupuncture in Cranbury, NJ - a modern take on an ancient treatment that has been used for thousands of years.
If you're new to holistic healing, acupuncture may seem intimidating. You might be wondering how needles pressed into your skin could possibly make you feel better. Wouldn't someone pushing a needle into your back be painful? As it turns out, acupuncture is far from painful and is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after treatments for chronic pain and for regulating issues relating to:
In fact, acupuncture has been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years and, more recently, has been researched and supported by many scientific studies. While acupuncture may not be a "miracle" treatment for every type of pain or condition, it has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of issues, from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.
Acupuncture is a therapy in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that aims to balance the body's energy, called qi, which flows through pathways called meridians. This balance is crucial for overall wellness, as disruptions to qi can lead to health concerns. According to TCM, inserting small stainless-steel needles into specific points called acupoints along the meridians can help rebalance the flow of qi and restore overall health.
These acupoints are believed to release certain chemicals when stimulated, which can trigger an immune response and promote physiological homeostasis. Recent research suggests that this therapy may help alleviate symptoms of various health ailments.
In fact, the National Institute of Health conducted a survey on complementary health approaches, revealing that acupuncture usage in the United States has increased by 50 percent between 2002 and 2012. As of 2012, 6.4 percent of American adults have reported using acupuncture as a form of treatment.
One of the most common questions from new patients interested in acupuncture typically revolves around whether it really works or whether it's all "new age" malarky. We get it - for most folks, the thought of inserting stainless-steel needles into one's back, arms, or neck sounds loony. However, with the ever-increasing popularity of acupuncture in New Jersey and other locations, numerous studies centering on acupuncture's effectiveness have taken place.
Extensive research has been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture for various conditions. A February 2022 analysis published in the BMJ, which evaluated over 2,000 scientific reviews of acupuncture therapies, revealed that acupuncture's efficacy is strongest for:
Additionally, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), acupuncture is most effective for pain relief in cases of chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and tension headaches. Additionally, a review of 11 clinical trials found that acupuncture may also alleviate symptoms associated with cancer treatment, as noted by the NIH.
When meeting with your acupuncturist for the first time, they will discuss your condition with you before conducting a physical examination to identify areas of your body that might respond to acupuncture. The needles used in acupuncture are incredibly thin, sterile, and disposable, with your acupuncturist inserting them at different depths ranging from a fraction of an inch to several inches.
Acupuncture needles are less painful than medical needles used for vaccines or blood draws. This is because acupuncture needles are thinner and solid, not hollow. During the treatment, you may experience some muscle sensations like dull aches or tingling.
Your practitioner will ask you to report any deep heaviness or numbness, which are positive signs that the treatment is working. Depending on the condition you're treating and the supplemental treatments you're undergoing, like physical therapy, acupuncture needles will remain in place for several minutes or up to 30 minutes.
Once your first acupuncture treatment is finished, it's normal to feel extra relaxed and calm. For that reason, some patients like to arrange for a ride home after their first or second session. With that said, you shouldn't experience much pain at all, and it's quite possible for you to return to work after acupuncture.
This is another common question that we get at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness. The simple answer is, "It depends." While we understand that that's not a satisfying answer for some, it's important to understand that every patient is different. Everyone has different bodies and, by proxy, different bodily conditions and issues that need to be addressed.
During your initial consultation at our office, your licensed acupuncturist will go over your needs and goals as it relates to acupuncture therapy. Once your therapist has a good sense of the scope of your needs, they can give you a loose idea of how many sessions you'll need.
Generally speaking, most patients have appointments once a week. Others may require more or less frequent sessions. It's important to note that the full benefits of acupuncture may not be immediately evident after the first or even the second session. It's common for normal patients to undergo up to five treatments to realize the full benefits of acupuncture.
There's no question that acupuncture is more popular than ever as a non-invasive, non-addictive way to reclaim balance and well-being. But what types of conditions can this traditional therapy help alleviate in the modern world? Advances in acupuncture techniques and applications have resulted in some very promising benefits.
Did you know that regular acupuncture treatments can help reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis? In May 2017, a meta-analysis was published, which studied approximately 18,000 patients with chronic pain, such as low back, neck, and shoulder pain, knee OA, and headache or migraine. The analysis found that the benefits of acupuncture therapy in reducing pain lasted for more than 12 months.
That's wonderful news for athletes and other people who push their bodies daily to accomplish goals or bring home money for rent and bills. In fact, many medical experts consider acupuncture as a viable option for managing chronic pain in conjunction with traditional methods like physical therapy and chiropractic care. The idea behind this approach is that acupuncture may trigger the body's natural healing response to alleviate pain.
When a licensed acupuncturist in New Jersey inserts an acupuncture needle, it penetrates your fascia, a connective tissue that wraps around your organs and muscles. Like a slight tickle on your arm, your body realizes that something is happening and responds by delivering lymph fluid, blood, and other important nutrients to speed up healing in affected areas like your knees, back, neck, joints, and more.
If you're like other people who suffer from migraines, you know that once one of them hits, it can be next to impossible to function properly throughout the day. Fortunately, acupuncture in Cranbury, NJ may be a viable solution if you have to endure migraines often.
A study conducted in 2009 by the Center for Complementary Medicine at the University of Munich analyzed 11 studies involving 2,137 patients who received acupuncture treatment for chronic tension-type headaches. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could be an effective non-pharmacological solution for frequent headaches.
The study compared the effects of acupuncture sessions with sham acupuncture and no treatment at all. Both groups that received acupuncture treatment, whether needles were placed randomly or strategically, reported a reduction in headache symptoms, while the control group reported no change. The group that received real acupuncture treatment also reported a decrease in the number of headache days and intensity of pain in a follow-up survey.
For individuals who struggle with insomnia and other sleep disturbances, acupuncture is a promising therapy. Although sedatives are commonly prescribed for insomnia, long-term use can lead to negative side effects such as dependence and excessive drowsiness.
A study conducted on 72 participants and published in Sleep Medicine in 2017 found that individuals who received acupuncture three times a week for four weeks experienced significant improvements in sleep quality and anxiety compared to those who received sham acupuncture.
Similarly, a review of 30 randomized, controlled trials found that acupuncture was more effective in improving sleep quality and daytime functioning than sham acupuncture.
While many patients choose acupuncture as a way to avoid surgery altogether, those who need surgery also use it for improved recovery. Because, at the end of the day, recovering from surgery is no easy feat. Patients may experience various symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain around the incision, restlessness, sleep troubles, constipation, and sore throat.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, healthcare providers may use acupuncture as a way to alleviate some of these symptoms and help with healing. A study published in Integrative Cancer Therapies in January 2017 involving 172 participants found that patients who received acupuncture after surgery reported significant improvements in sleep, anxiety, pain, fatigue, nausea, and drowsiness.
Did you know that supplementing physical therapy with acupuncture and vice versa can have profoundly beneficial effects for patients in New Jersey and across the country? If you're like most, chances are you didn't.
The truth is that acupuncture and physical therapy have both been proven effective in reducing pain and inflammation. While many people view them as separate methods, combining the two modalities can produce a synergistic effect that enhances pain relief and delivers long-lasting benefits to patients.
Physical therapists work with patients of all ages and abilities, from children to elderly adults, to help them overcome physical limitations and improve their quality of life. At NJ Sports Spine & Wellness, our physical therapists help treat a wide range of conditions, from neck pain and spinal cord injuries to back pain and arthritis.
To effectively reduce pain and treat tissue injury, a combination of acupuncture and physical therapy can be very helpful. Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation and release muscle tightness and trigger points, allowing the patient to better receive manual therapy or exercise-based physical therapy techniques. In doing so, acupuncture can actually create a window of time that allows your body to respond better to other treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.
There are many benefits of combining physical therapy with acupuncture in Cranbury, NJ, including the following:
You may be wondering, "Are there any studies showing these benefits?" As it turns out, there are many. One such study, published on the NIH's website, was conducted on patients suffering from frozen shoulder.
Patients who received acupuncture experienced a significant reduction in pain, while those who underwent physical therapy saw an improvement in range of motion. However, the best outcome was observed in patients who received a combination of both treatments, with reduced pain, increased their range of motion, and improved quality of life. This study highlights the potential benefits of using acupuncture and physical therapy as complementary treatments for frozen shoulder.
It makes sense, then, that people from all walks of life are combining acupuncture with chiropractic treatments at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, including:
At New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness, our doctors, practitioners, occupational therapists, and physical therapist specialize in a range of therapies and treatments. Much like physical therapy and acupuncture, combining chiropractic care with acupuncture therapy gives patients a new way to reclaim their mobility, reduce chronic pain, and maintain a healthy quality of life.
Chiropractic care and acupuncture in Cranbury, NJ are natural healing practices that don't rely on drugs to improve the body's health. They focus on correcting imbalances in the body's structural and supportive systems, promoting natural healing, and ultimately leading to better health. These practices have a proven track record of helping patients improve their quality of life and overcome physical difficulties.
Integrating chiropractic and acupuncture as a dual-modality treatment offers the most efficient solution for removing blockages from the body, promoting balance, and accelerating healing. Rather than using these treatments sequentially, a combined approach allows for maximum benefits at one time.
Chiropractic targets subluxations in the nervous system through manual adjustments, facilitating the central nervous system to promote healing, while acupuncture removes blockages that may hinder the body's internal balance. Together, these treatments work synergistically to optimize energy flow and restore harmony in the body.
When our physical well-being becomes imbalanced, and our innate healing mechanisms are compromised, illnesses can manifest. The integration of acupuncture and chiropractic practices can effectively address a wide range of health conditions that they individually target, such as:
Curious if combining chiropractic care or physical therapy with acupuncture is right for your body? The best way to find out is to make an appointment at our sports rehab clinic in New Jersey. Once our team of medical professionals has a chance to evaluate your conditions, we can explore the best options to provide the most relief in the shortest amount of time possible.
New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness consists of a team of athletic trainers, chiropractors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other professionals. We're very proud and passionate about caring for our patients, many of whom are suffering from debilitating conditions like back and neck pain, plantar fasciitis, sports-related injuries, and more. If you're trying to get on the road to pain relief and recovery, acupuncture may be the non-surgical solution you need to reclaim your life. Contact our office today to learn whether this exciting treatment is right for you.
Despite New Jersey being the only state where all its counties are classified as metropolitan areas, visitors can still enjoy a good selection of lesser-known locations without sacrificing their exploration.If you're looking for a sign to escape the city, then consider these seven offbeat towns in New Jersey that promise to provide an escape from the hustle and bustle and offer some one-of-a-kind experiences in the Garden State!...
Despite New Jersey being the only state where all its counties are classified as metropolitan areas, visitors can still enjoy a good selection of lesser-known locations without sacrificing their exploration.
If you're looking for a sign to escape the city, then consider these seven offbeat towns in New Jersey that promise to provide an escape from the hustle and bustle and offer some one-of-a-kind experiences in the Garden State!
Cranbury is one of the oldest towns in the state, with records dating back to 1680. Cranbury is considered one of the best-preserved historic townships in the county, and the entirety of its downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A stroll through Cranbury makes it easy to admire the town's historic charm, which contains buildings of a variety of Victorian-styled homes. To explore the town's history, visit the Cranbury Museum, which is known for showcasing artifacts that have helped tell the story of Cranbury since its creation. If you're keen on exploring the area's natural beauty, head to the Reinhardt Forest Preserve. The sprawling open space is home to lush forests, wetlands, and plenty of wildlife and allows visitors to see beautiful and interesting plant life. Don't forget to enjoy a meal at the Cranberry Inn. This historic restaurant and inn is a popular landmark in the town and has been serving hot meals since the 18th century. It is one of the most historic places in all of New Jersey.
This beautiful town offers scenery straight out of a hallmark card and has long been known as a historic destination near Philadelphia. Steeped in history, Haddonfield is known as one of the oldest communities to be established in the state of New Jersey, as it was originally founded in the 1700s. The town has abundant history to explore and to learn more about the local history, a visit to the former Revolutionary War site or the Indian King Tavern Museum is a must. If your answer can't be found at the previous historical gems, then the Haddonfield Historical Museum must be your next stop.
The heart of Haddonfield stretches along Kings Highway, which serves as the main point of interest for all the activity. The quaint stores accommodate a variety of businesses and are impossible to overlook. Here, you can enjoy some freshly brewed coffee while you enjoy your breakfast at one of the cafes. Make sure to save some appetite to indulge in lunch or dinner before concluding your visit. Crumb Restaurant is a local favorite, offering delicious twists on many classics. It is also worth noting that Haddonfield is a "Dry" town, meaning that not all restaurants serve alcohol.
Start your day in Allentown the right way with a visit to the Moth Coffeehouse for some delicious breakfast. Next, explore the beautiful architecture throughout the town's historic district, and be sure to stop by the Allentown Antique Center for a great deal on some vintage goods. If you're looking for a fun and educational experience, then look no further than a tour of the Trenton State House. The Trenton State House, which is also known as the New Jersey State House, is the Capitol building of the state of New Jersey and is located a short drive away from Allentown. Don't forget to take some time to unwind during your visit to Allentown, and what better way to unwind than a relaxing visit to Mercer County Park? For a truly unique experience, you must pay a visit to the Horse Park of New Jersey, which offers a variety of activities spanning from pleasure riders to Olympic-level competitors. This park is truly a gem in the crown of Allentown.
A day in Chester can unfold with a blend of history, nature, and an unreplaceable small-town feel. Start by exploring the charming historic district covered with cobblestone streets that will make you feel like you are journeying back to the 17th century. Speaking of going back in time, Visit the Chester Historical Society to delve into the town's rich past and explore the routes of the town's creation. Also, take a tour of one of the few water-powered mills in New Jersey, the Nathan Cooper Gristmill, which is a prominent attraction that shows the transition of Chester into an industrialized town. For a scenic break, head to Hacklebarney State Park, where hiking trails trace through the region's beautiful forests. Don't forget to stop at the bakery within the park to try some famous cider donuts. To get up close and personal with some wildlife, visit the Black River Wildlife Management Area to check out local wildlife in various habitats and gain a better understanding of the region's animals.
Begin a delightful visit to Ocean Grove by starting with a refreshing stroll along the iconic Ocean Pathway while the wind breezes off the ocean. The path is covered by charming Victorian homes and provides that beach town vibe. Immerse yourself in the town's artistic spirit at the historic Great Auditorium, which is known for its concerts and events. The 7,000-seat auditorium on Pilgrim Pathway is a remarkable wooden structure located in the heart of the town. Dip your toes in the sand and unwind on the pristine Ocean Grove beach known for its historic pier and serene atmosphere. The town possesses a unique history. Ocean Grove has been known as "God's Square Mile" as it is a community owned by the Methodist Association. So be sure to explore the Ocean Grove Historical Society for insights into the town's unique heritage. As the sun sets, enjoy the vibrant community and seaside ambiance that make Ocean Grove a perfect coastal retreat.
New Jersey's Most Charming Beach TownsThe state is nicknamed the “Garden State.” for its beautifully preserved nature and greenery, but there is much more to New Jersey than its vast green lands and skyscraping buildings.
Settled along the Delaware River, Frenchtown promises a peaceful retreat and an escape from the hectic routines of everyday life. Begin your day by exploring the charming downtown, featuring antique shops, artisanal stores, and delightful cafes. The town is surrounded by lush forests that offer plenty of opportunities for adventure. Take a hike through the trails of the Frenchtown preserve and enjoy the beauty of the forest. Cool off during the summer months by taking a float down the scenic Delaware River. Many businesses in the village offer tube rides on the river, along with kayak and canoe rentals. A word to the wise: don't miss the iconic Frenchtown Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. As predicted in the name, the town also celebrates its heritage with a variety of festivals occurring throughout the year; the town is known for celebrating Bastille Day, a holiday that pays tribute to the Storming of the Bastille, which was a major event of the French Revolution.
This waterfront oasis provides some of the most impressive landscapes in the state, allowing visitors to admire views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the skyline of New York City. The ocean town possesses beaches, hiking trails, and the historic Sandy Hook lighthouse. Nearby is the Twin Lights Historic Site, known for its panoramic views of the region and offers a better understanding of the town's maritime history. To experience the culture, visit Highlands Arts District, which expresses local creativity and is home to various galleries, such as Ross Fine Art, known for its unique spin on local culture.
For nature enthusiasts, Hartshorne Woods Park offers hiking and biking trails with stunning views, which will give you that extra energy boost as you exercise with a view. A friendly reminder that the Big Apple is only a short ferry ride away, as there is a ferry from Highlands directly to Manhattan. Whether you're into maritime history, outdoor adventures, or coastal relaxation, Highlands is sure to offer plenty of opportunities to those who visit.
Mantoloking has a secondary meaning of "sand place." In 1911, this town officially became the Borough of Mantoloking and has remained so ever since. Visitors are encouraged to try being a first mate for the day and explore the waters with fishing or boating excursions. The Barnegat Bay and nearby waterways offer angling and sailing opportunities as well as numerous chartering services such as Seaside Sailing. For a more peaceful excursion, Simplify your stay with a beach day. Enjoy the quiet and clean beaches of Mantoloking, which will provide a tranquil escape for those ready to relax; Island State Beach Park is one of the best in the area. If you want to scream at the top of your lungs, then visiting the Oceanfront amusement park is the place for you. The park offers everything from kid's rides to scream-inducing roller coasters that are sure to provide fun for the whole family. End your day with a stroll along the historic casino pier, which is the place to be to experience the shore-like atmosphere Mantoloking will surely provide.
In summary, these offbeat towns in New Jersey promise unique experiences, rich histories, and stunning landscapes. From the well-preserved charm of Cranbury to the historic allure of Haddonfield, each town offers a distinctive escape from the urban hustle. Embrace the opportunity to put your feet in the sand or explore the lush forests of forgotten histories of New Jersey. Each town unveils culture, nature, and community waiting to be explored in the Garden State.
Share
CRANBURY – Jennifer K. Diszler is the new chief school administrator and principal of Cranbury School.Diszler, who starts Sept. 1, follows Susan L. Genco, who is retiring from the post after 11 years with the district. Assistant Principal Michele Waldron also is retiring after 14 years.Diszler, who was the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Administration for the South Brunswick school district, was chosen from among dozens of qualified applicants during a comprehensive and extensive se...
CRANBURY – Jennifer K. Diszler is the new chief school administrator and principal of Cranbury School.
Diszler, who starts Sept. 1, follows Susan L. Genco, who is retiring from the post after 11 years with the district. Assistant Principal Michele Waldron also is retiring after 14 years.
Diszler, who was the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Administration for the South Brunswick school district, was chosen from among dozens of qualified applicants during a comprehensive and extensive search, said Board of Education President Pramod Chivate. The board said it was Diszler's "demonstrated strength in curriculum and technology development and her passionate vision for advancing learning" which made her the strongest candidate.
"I am both honored and humbled by this opportunity and I am looking forward to dedicating myself to the Cranbury School District," Diszler said. "I am truly excited to be joining such a highly regarded district where students are at the forefront of every decision."
Diszler began her education career as a middle school math teacher in Somerset County and taught for 10 years at both the elementary and middle school levels. While teaching, she earned her master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Rider University in 2006 and soon after began her administrative career as an instructional strategies specialist for Innovative Designs for Education, an education consulting group in Ramsey. There she worked with teacher cohorts in various school districts to develop learner-active, technology-infused classrooms at the elementary, middle and high school levels.
More:Voters approve Cranbury's $18.5 million school referendum
Diszler transitioned back into the school setting in 2010, joining the South Brunswick school district as the middle school supervisor for Math and Science. In 2012, she was named the director of professional development and oversaw coordination of all professional learning for the district, including evaluation system, mandated policy, technology infusion, character education and content-specific training.
From 2015 to 2017, Diszler served in the North Brunswick school district as director of curriculum, instruction, and technology before returning to South Brunswick in 2017. During her tenure as assistant superintendent in South Brunswick, Diszler worked collaboratively with her team to assure fidelity, high-quality, and transparency to all content and curricular components. Additionally, she was instrumental in bringing the most current instructional technologies to the district, launching the first Career Academy for the high school, and implementing a reflective practice alternative to the evaluation model for tenured teachers.
In 2021, Diszler earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership at Rider University where her research was in the area of teacher reflection.
"We were looking for a school leader who would build upon our successes and inspire a culture of high expectations for all students and staff, and we found that and more," school board president Chivate said. "In addition to her vast experience in curriculum, technology and meaningful professional development, Dr. Diszler has a positive energy and collaborative nature that we believe will resonate with our community. We are thrilled she will be joining us."
Cranbury School has approximately 500 students in grades K-8. Students in grades 9 and up attend Princeton High School.
email: cmakin@gannettnj.com
Cheryl Makin is an award-winning features and education reporter forMyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: Cmakin@gannettnj.com or@CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.