Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ
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 Neptune City, NJ - a modern take on an ancient treatment that has been used for thousands of years.
- Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ
- Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ
- Is Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ Actually Legit?
- What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ?
- The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
- Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
- What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
- The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ
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:
- Digestion
- Hormones
- Breathing
- Muscles
- Nerves & Brain
- Sex & Libido
- Body Circulation
- Organs & Heart
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.
Covering the Basics of Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ
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.
Is Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ Actually Legit?
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:
- Neck Pain
- Back Pain
- Post-Stroke Aphasia
- Muscle Pain
- Lactation Issues
- Lower Back Pain
- Asthma
- Allergies
- Vascular Dementia
- More
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.
What Happens During an Acupuncture Session at New Jersey Sports Spine & Wellness?
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.
How Many Treatments Until Acupuncture Works?
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.
What Conditions Are Treated with Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ?
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.
Relief from Chronic Pain
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.
Migraine Headache Relief
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 Neptune City, 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.
Improved Sleep
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.
Better Recovery from Surgery
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.
The Surprising Benefits of Supplementing Physical Therapy with Acupuncture
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 Neptune City, NJ, including the following:
- Increased Range of Motion
- More Effective Long-Term Pain Relief
- Enhanced Tissue Repair & Healing
- Better Response to Physical Therapy Due to Pain Reduction
- Less of a Need for Pain Medications
- Boosted Mood & Energy
- Better Quality of Life Overall
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:
- Professional Athletes
- Football Players
- Soccer Players
- Baseball Players
- Construction Workers
- Landscapers
- Accountants and People Working Office Jobs
- Public Officials
- Police Officers
- More
Combining Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief and Wellness
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 Neptune City, 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.
What are the Benefits of Using Acupuncture with Chiropractic Care?
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.
What Conditions Can Be Treated with Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care?
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:
- Sports Injuries
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- Lower Back Pain
- Neck Pain
- Insomnia
- Chronic Conditions Like Diabetes
- More
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.
The Premier Choice for Professional Acupuncture in Neptune City, NJ
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.
732-526-2497
Latest News in Neptune City, NJ
Neptune City Library announces March events
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/neptune-slash-neptune-city/sections/government/articles/neptune-city-library-announces-march-events
The Neptune City Public Library, located at 106 West Sylvania Ave., has announced its schedule of programming taking place throughout March. Photo Credit: Neptune City Library By Alissa Deleo NEPTUNE CITY, NJ — The Neptune City Public Library, located at 106 West Sylvania Ave., has announced its programming schedule for March.Select events require registration by calling the l...
The Neptune City Public Library, located at 106 West Sylvania Ave., has announced its schedule of programming taking place throughout March. Photo Credit: Neptune City Library
By Alissa Deleo
NEPTUNE CITY, NJ — The Neptune City Public Library, located at 106 West Sylvania Ave., has announced its programming schedule for March.
Select events require registration by calling the library at 732 988 8866.
A Read to A Therapy Dog event is coming to the library on March 4 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Children ages five and up are welcome to attend.
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The library hosts Baby Toddler Storytime each Monday from 2:30 to 3 p.m. Children ages one to four are welcome to attend with a parent/caregiver present. This program will offer finger plays, songs, stories, bubbles and related activities.
Family Storytime takes place on Mondays from 3:30 to 4 p.m. Children ages five to seven are invited to attend with a parent/caregiver present.
The library will celebrate Read Across America Day on March 4 with a craft on March 11 there will be a St. Patrick’s Day storytime and craft, and on March 18 there will be a spring storytime and craft.
Each of these events features story readings, and hands-on craft projects/activities. Registration is suggested one week before each date by phone or in person.
A reading school-age activity, best for youth ages seven and up, will take place on March 11 from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m.
The library will host a special virtual cartooning program on March 11 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Award-winning cartoonist, Rick Stromoski will provide a lesson on how to draw dinosaurs. Online registration opens on March 1. The Zoom link to the class will be emailed to registered participants.
A science event, best for youth ages 8 and up, will take place on March 18 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Wild Jersey explores electricity with this hands-on STEM activity sure to inspire future engineers.
The library will host an indoor egg hunt on March 25 from 3:15 to 3:45 p.m. This activity is best for children ages four and up.
A children's craft will take place on March 25 from 3:15 to 3:45 p.m. This program, best for children ages five to eight, will give participants the opportunity to create 3D action cards.
Take ‘n make crafts will be offered throughout the month. Pick up a craft kit to make at home, directions and a themed read are available online here.
Monmouth County Launches ACTS Navigation System
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/neptune-slash-neptune-city/sections/community/articles/monmouth-county-launches-acts-navigation-system
Freehold, NJ – Monmouth County government has recently launched Monmouth ACTS Navigation System, which aims to connect Monmouth County residents with social workers around needs such as immigration, English language barriers, mental health, addiction, transportation, hunger and low income concerns. The design and function of the system are the result of a survey conducted in 2016 which focused on the changed needs and growing population of Monmouth County residents.A fully integrated electronic referral system, residents can cal...
Freehold, NJ – Monmouth County government has recently launched Monmouth ACTS Navigation System, which aims to connect Monmouth County residents with social workers around needs such as immigration, English language barriers, mental health, addiction, transportation, hunger and low income concerns. The design and function of the system are the result of a survey conducted in 2016 which focused on the changed needs and growing population of Monmouth County residents.
A fully integrated electronic referral system, residents can call the Navigation System “Warm Line” at 732-683-8959 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to speak to a social worker trained in this area of need. The social worker will ask some questions of the caller, and then refer the caller to potential resources and services across the County. The electronic referral system then allows the social worker to follow up to ensure that the resident’s needs are met.
According to their website, "Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Community Through Services) was created by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners in 2018 to carry out the recommendations of a Human Services Needs Assessment. This innovative public-private partnership brings together County divisions from the Department of Human Services and community partners on the Monmouth ACTS Advisory Council (MAAC) to enhance access to services for County residents."
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Community partners as listed on their website include:
Monmouth County Department of Human Services, Monmouth ACTS Advisory Council, Monmouth County Department of Human Services, VNA Health Group, Child Care Resources, Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development, Interfaith Neighbors, Monmouth County Office of Child and Youth Development,180 Turning Lives Around, Neptune Township Department of Senior Services and Senior Center, Monmouth County Department of Human Services – Division on Aging, Disabilities & Veterans Services, LADACIN Network, Bohse & Associates LLC, Brookdale Community College, New Hope-IBHC, Inc., Monmouth University, New Jersey Natural Gas, HABcore, Inc., Lunch Break, Freehold Clergy Association, Community Affairs & Resource Center (CARC), I Beseech Thee Development Corp., Pilgrim Baptist Church of Red Bank, Monmouth County Office of Education, Family and Children’s Service, Monmouth Family Health Center, Bethel AME Church, Fulfill, Brookdale Community College, Affordable Housing Alliance, United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, as well as a number of individuals and Ex-Officio members.
Neptune City’s Brian Thomas “Sleeping Out” for homeless youth
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/neptune-slash-neptune-city/articles/neptune-city-s-brian-thomas-sleeping-out-for-homeless-youth
NEPTUNE CITY, NJ — In what has become an annual way of giving back, Neptune City Councilman Brian J. Thomas is getting ready to take part in Covenant House of New Jersey’s “SleepOut” taking place on Friday, March 1 at the Borough’s Memorial Park from 8:30 p.m. to dawn.Councilman Thomas, who is captain of the “Neptune City Sleepwalkers” team, is hoping to again raise funds for the organization and its Asbury Park Shelter, but more importantly, bring awareness to a serious problem facing childre...
NEPTUNE CITY, NJ — In what has become an annual way of giving back, Neptune City Councilman Brian J. Thomas is getting ready to take part in Covenant House of New Jersey’s “SleepOut” taking place on Friday, March 1 at the Borough’s Memorial Park from 8:30 p.m. to dawn.
Councilman Thomas, who is captain of the “Neptune City Sleepwalkers” team, is hoping to again raise funds for the organization and its Asbury Park Shelter, but more importantly, bring awareness to a serious problem facing children all over New Jersey and the nation as a whole.
“We live in the greatest nation in this world, there is absolutely no reason why any kid should have to worry about not having a roof over their heads. If by sleeping outside for one night in the cold means that soon a kid has the chance to have a warm bed, then it becomes an easy decision to make,” said Councilman Thomas. “Last year, we dealt with a cold, icy night – but it was well worth it. We’re eager to do it all again because we know the positive impact it can have on a young life.”
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The homelessness epidemic facing America has hit a critical level as prices and inflation have wreaked havoc on individuals and families. Unfortunately, this is a longstanding problem which has been exacerbated by current economic trends. Thomas is himself no stranger to the anxiety, stress, and negative effects plaguing children that come facing financial hardships at a young age.
“I come from a single-mother home. My mother fought and clawed for everything to provide for me and my sister. But there are times when, no matter how hard you fight, things don’t work out. If by taking what I experienced growing up and being able to turn it into a positive to help others – then everything was worth it. I made it out, so now I want to give others that opportunity,” explained Thomas.
In total, over 2.5 million children under the age of 18 are homeless in the United States. Here in New Jersey, the numbers hit closer to home, with over 11,000 children considered homeless - 8,600 of those kids being under the age of 6.
“And listen, I don’t do this because I want an award or my name talked about – believe me – unlike most politicians, I’m not looking for a pat on my back for trying to help kids. I do it because I know what it is like to struggle, to worry about not having enough money or where we would have to sleep because things just got overwhelming,” Thomas noted. “The only thing I ask is that people consider donating to our team or Covenant House NJ directly so they can continue to do their amazing work.”
You can help support Covenant House and team “Neptune City Sleepwalkers” by clicking the link here.
TAPinto Launches Local News and Marketing Platform in Neptune Township/Neptune City, New Jersey
Alissa Deleohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/neptune-slash-neptune-city/sections/business-and-finance/articles/tapinto-launches-local-news-and-marketing-platform-in-neptune-township-neptune-city-new-jersey-be260f2f-3b58-4a86-977b-f3f224e8b7b7
Lauren Albrecht, left, and Alissa Deleo are co-publishers of TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City, which launched on February 1, 2024. Photo Credit: Lauren Albrecht / Alissa DeleoLast UpdatedFebruary 5, 2024 at 6:00 AMMONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — The local news landscape in Monmouth County is expanding, and residents now have an additional source for daily updates with the launch of TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City.Owned and published by Lauren Albrecht and Alissa Deleo, this local n...
Lauren Albrecht, left, and Alissa Deleo are co-publishers of TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City, which launched on February 1, 2024. Photo Credit: Lauren Albrecht / Alissa Deleo
Last UpdatedFebruary 5, 2024 at 6:00 AM
MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — The local news landscape in Monmouth County is expanding, and residents now have an additional source for daily updates with the launch of TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City.
Owned and published by Lauren Albrecht and Alissa Deleo, this local news and digital marketing platform will serve as a dedicated source of daily local news coverage in the community.
Notably, TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City marks the eighth addition to the TAPinto network in Monmouth County, emphasizing the commitment to delivering comprehensive local news coverage throughout the region.
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Lauren Albrecht has been a Monmouth County resident for 30 years, graduating from Ocean Township High School in 1999.
Albrecht, 42, resides in Wall with her family and works in nonprofit, having changed careers after 12 years in healthcare finance.
She is active in several local and statewide political organizations and holds BA's in English and Art History. "I decided I wanted to learn about TAPinto after realizing that hyperlocal coverage is the most effective way to really know my neighbors. Neptune and Neptune City are incredibly diverse, rapidly changing communities with long histories and really interesting dynamics, and they deserve dedicated coverage," Albrecht said.
Alissa Deleo is a journalist and photographer with four years of experience producing news for digital and print media in Monmouth County.
A 2020 graduate of St. John's University with a Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies, Deleo brings a wealth of expertise in reporting, editing, photography and videography to TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City.
Committed to providing accurate, timely and comprehensive coverage, Deleo emphasized, "The most rewarding aspect of journalism for me is the ability to engage with a diverse range of people and narrate their stories through both my writing and photographs. I am 100 percent dedicated to keeping our readers well-informed and deeply connected to their community."
To get daily e-news from TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City for free in your inbox, sign up here.
Follow Neptune/Neptune City on Facebook, Instagram and on X., formerly known as Twitter to stay connected.
Meet the Leaders: Assemblywoman Margie Donlon
TAPintohttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/neptune-slash-neptune-city/sections/government/articles/meet-the-leaders-assemblywoman-margie-donlon
TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City recently interviewed Assemblywoman Margie Donlon (D-Ocean) of the 11th Legislative District of the New Jersey Legislature.Photo Credit: Margie Donlon By Alissa Deleo PublishedFebruary 22, 2024 at 10:47 PMMONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City recently interviewed Assemblywoman Dr. Margie Donlon (D-Ocean Township) of the 11th Legislative District of the New Jersey Legislature.Donlon took her oath of of...
TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City recently interviewed Assemblywoman Margie Donlon (D-Ocean) of the 11th Legislative District of the New Jersey Legislature.Photo Credit: Margie Donlon
By Alissa Deleo
PublishedFebruary 22, 2024 at 10:47 PM
MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ — TAPinto Neptune/Neptune City recently interviewed Assemblywoman Dr. Margie Donlon (D-Ocean Township) of the 11th Legislative District of the New Jersey Legislature.
Donlon took her oath of office entering the 11th Legislative District, which spans 19 municipalities in eastern Monmouth County, on January 9, 2024.
Assemblywoman Donlon has been appointed to the following committees: Health Committee and the Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee.
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This committee is responsible for overseeing legislation regarding state tourism, including cultural, historical, heritage and agricultural places of interest and state arts programs, which include museums and the performing arts.
Prior to joining the General Assembly, Donlon served as Deputy Mayor of Ocean Township after completing two terms on the town council. She is a Board-Certified Doctor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, caring for patients with injuries and disabilities. She served on Gov. Phil Murphy’s Healthcare Transition Advisory Committee in 2017 and was a member of the LD11 Economic Recovery Advisory Council in 2020.
Donlon has made state history as the first woman physician to serve in the legislature.
Tell us about yourself personally and professionally?
I’ve always believed that when we share what we know with others and help people in our community we live happier lives ourselves. That’s one of the reasons I went into medicine. I am a board-certified practicing physician, specializing in caring for patients with injuries and disabilities.
I hold a Masters in Public Health with a focus on Health Policy from Yale University, a Medical Degree from the University of Rochester, and a bachelor's from Middlebury College. I am a mom to two daughters, Amalia and Vera.
I am an avid surfer and actively contribute back to the surfing community. I volunteer with the Surfers Environmental Alliance and the Best Day Foundation, where I teach adaptive surfing to kids with disabilities. I also serve on the Board of the Surfers Medical Association.
What motivated you to pursue a role in government and what do you find most rewarding about serving LD11?
I have always had a passion for connecting my experiences working in health care to policies. When I got my Masters in Public Health from Yale, I concentrated my studies on Health Policy to learn the relationship between the practice of care and the policies that regulate it.
As a physician, I am my patient’s primary advocate to insurance companies and other healthcare professionals.
As an elected official, I get to advocate for my community at a scope greater than just the doctor’s office. I pursued a role in government because I understand what it is like to be a working mom and leader trying to work with a very complicated system.
Bringing tangible changes to my community is what brings me genuine joy, and I find that to be the most rewarding part. Every day, I get to hear from constituents about their lives, and if I can do anything to promote their wellness and alleviate their suffering, I will be fulfilling my life’s mission.
What do you love most about this great state?
I love how New Jersey has something for everyone. I have the Jersey Shore at my fingertips for surfing, but can also go on a hike with my daughters on a mountain trail or even ski in the winter.
New Jersey boasts the best education system in the country, while still having a close knit community to raise my family in. I originally came to New Jersey to complete my residency program, but I stayed because I cannot picture myself living anywhere else. In New Jersey, you can live, work and play in a very special state.
What accomplishments are you most proud of during your time serving on the Ocean Township council and as deputy mayor?
While I served on the Ocean Township council, we were able to reduce our tax rate four years in a row. Affordability is a key concern of mine, and working on the council, I was able to see just how impactful local government is on our lives. I also acted as the Liaison to the Environmental Commission, Shade Tree Commission, and the Green Team.
We updated and passed a new ordinance to promote tree preservation in town and worked on reducing impervious surface coverage to stave off flooding. Speaking up on behalf of protecting and preserving our environment is important to me, so I was really proud to advocate on behalf of our shared spaces.
What legislative initiatives or projects are you currently focused on?
I am currently focused on affordable healthcare, supporting local safety, and prioritizing affordable living initiatives. I just introduced legislation alongside my LD11 teammates, Senator Gopal and Assemblywoman Peterpaul, to support the growth of our volunteer first responders, who are the backbone of serving our community in times of crisis.
We also are working on a bill that would allow accredited clubhouses, like the Shore House in Long Branch, to receive Medicaid reimbursement for mental health rehabilitation services they provide.
How do you plan to address key challenges facing your constituents in LD11?
A key challenge I have heard from constituents is affordability. Many who love New Jersey can no longer call this great state home due to rising living costs. I intend to address affordability from different angles - from healthcare, to property taxes, to childcare.
Serving on the Tourism, Gaming & the Arts Committee, what initiatives do you believe can best enhance tourism in New Jersey?
The tourism industry in New Jersey has been bouncing back since the pandemic, but there is so much room to go. I believe that supporting our local small businesses and ensuring that they are able to cater to tourists as effectively as possible is going to be key in supporting tourism.
New Jersey is home to thousands of mom-and-pop shops, all of which contribute to the vibrant culture of our state and its economy. I am excited to see how the recent updates to brewery restrictions impacts our tourism industry.
We have to create incentives to support our local small business, to make it easier for them to navigate our state agencies and regulations and be successful. Our small business people make New Jersey such a special place to live.
In what ways do you collaborate with fellow committee members to ensure the well-being of the state's residents?
As a member of the Health Committee, I am joined by other healthcare practitioners who understand the patient-physician relationship, and the impact our policies have on the ability to provide care for patients.
As a doctor and a member of the Health Committee, I listen to key stakeholders, activists, and community members about how legislation might impact them, and I’m committed to making legislation that addresses their needs.
How can young people become more engaged in civic activities and make a positive impact?
I highly encourage all young people to volunteer in their communities. Volunteering provides the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community through service. Ask questions about what you are observing. Don’t just accept what you hear. Be proactive in getting to the truth and share it with others.
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