Triangle Natural Medicine

Triangle Natural Medicine: Frequently Asked Questions

Acupuncture FAQs

Does Acupuncture work?
Yes. Do you know anyone who has tried Acupuncture? Ask them. Here is the U.S. National Institutes of Health statement on acupuncture.

What does Acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture treats a range of diseases and conditions—see this World Health Organization report.

Does Acupuncture hurt?
Not if it’s done well. Acupuncture needles are very small (smaller than a human hair), and their insertion, when noticeable, feels like a pinch or small bug bite. For very sensitive patients, even smaller needles are used with very slow and shallow insertions.

What will happen at my Acupuncture treatment?
Your practitioner will ask about your condition and history, and examine any relevant signs. He will then insert acupuncture needles, usually between 4 and 16, at acupuncture points on your body. He may also recommend dietary therapy, herbal medicines, or homeopathic remedies as a part of your treatment plan.

Will insurance cover my Acupuncture treatment?
Unfortunately in North Carolina Acupuncture is not a reimbursable expense. Contact your insurance company to see whether your policy covers Acupuncture treatment and if so, exactly what that coverage entails. Though we do not bill insurance, we will provide you with the necessary codes (known as a ‘Superbill’) for you to submit to your provider for reimbursement.

How many treatments will I need?
For minor acute injury or illness (e.g. minor muscle strain/sprain, cold, flu, vomiting/diarrhea, etc.) usually two or three treatments are sufficient. For chronic complaints a general rule of thumb is one month of treatment for every year a patient has had the condition. To get such a result will most likely involve the combination of acupuncture, herbs, homeopathy, and nutritional discipline.

How should I prepare for my Acupuncture treatment?
For best results, avoid large meals or an empty stomach before your treatment. If possible wear loose fitting clothes that can be easily raised above your elbows and knees without causing restriction. Otherwise we have gowns available (which are necessary for back treatments).

Is Acupuncture a substitute for Western Medicine?
No, absolutely not. Western Medicine excels at what we call Critical Care--care of patients in critical condition. If you ever confront a medical emergency, get to a hospital Emergency Room as quickly as possible (this may mean calling 911).

Homeopathy FAQs

Does homeopathy work?
Yes--when the correct remedy is prescribed. Do you know anyone who has tried homeopathy? Ask them. Here is the U.S. National Institutes of Health statement on homeopathy.

What does homeopathy treat?
In the words of Samuel Hahnemann, homeopathy treats 'mistunement of the dynamis'. Over 200 years ago, that was his way of saying 'dysfunction of the life force'. When function is corrected, mind and body repair themselves.

How does homeopathy work?
Homeopathic remedies are identified through multi-person studies called 'provings'. As far as my clinical observation goes, much like acupuncture, homeopathic remedies clear blockages and stimulate the healthy functioning of mind and body.

Why do you often recommend homeopathy?
Results. In my experience, acupuncture and homeopathy together treat a wider range of more severe conditions than either alone.

Why does a Homeopathic Intake take more time and cost more?
A Homeopathic Intake takes more time, because identifying the 'simillimum' or 'remedy most similar' to the 'disease picture' is quite difficult. It costs more because the homeopath uses additional time outside of the consultation to analyze the case.