Treatment Modalities at Thunderbolt Wellness

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and Lifestyle counseling

What to Expect During A Treatment

The term “Qi”, or “chi” refers to the life force energy that we all enjoy as a fundamental part of our experience, for example, the ability to take a clear and deep breath. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system that analyzes the Qi via pathways called meridians, which can become blocked or stagnant, thus causing symptoms of poor health such as pain, fatigue, or difficulty with digestion, etc. Attempts have been made to objectively measure this “Qi response, ” and correlations have been drawn between acupuncture meridians and neural pathways, as well as postulations that the insertions of acupuncture needles trigger a release of endorphins. Acupuncture, herbal medicine and other lifestyle changes can allow the Qi to move freely, thus returning the body to a state of balance or homeostasis.

During treatment, Janet will palpate specific points along the meridian pathway, often searching for a place of tenderness.  Very thin, sterile acupuncture needles are then inserted into the skin’s upper layers, and depending on the location of the point, the needle may be inserted deeper into the muscle tissue.  There is usually a sensation of warmth, tingling or heaviness that accompanies this, and no significant pain.  The needle is gently manipulated for a few seconds, and then left in for about 20-30 minutes while the patient rests comfortably. Patients usually experience a feeling of calmness and relaxation after a session, and may even fall asleep during the treatment.

An initial consultation with acupuncture treatment is 1.5 – 2 hours, and consists of an extensive health history interview, followed by diagnosis and treatment plan according to TCM principles. Herbal formulations will possibly be prescribed, either as a custom formulation written by Janet, or using prepared pills or tablets.  Lifestyle counseling and suggestions will be discussed to further enhance the intention of the treatment.  Future sessions are arranged at weekly, bi-weekly or monthly intervals, depending on the condition. Herbal consultations without acupuncture treatment are also available.  Questions and concerns will be addressed prior to treatment. Please remember that it is advisable to have food 1.5-2 hours prior to your acupuncture treatment.

Janet is also available by phone or e-mail for further information.

Thunderbolt Wellness Acupuncture

Janet L. Borges, MSTCM, L.Ac. 2117 West Main Street Upstairs Richmond, VA 23220 804.405.2330