Everything you need to know before starting care at Balance Naturopathic & Acupuncture
Basics & Common Concerns
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a natural therapy that uses very fine, sterile needles to stimulate specific points on the body. It works by improving circulation, regulating the nervous system, and promoting the body’s self-healing processes. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it’s used to treat a wide range of conditions—from chronic pain and stress to digestive disorders and infertility.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Most people find acupuncture to be relaxing and comfortable. The needles are extremely thin—about the size of a human hair—and are not painful like injections. You might feel a brief pinch, tingling, or warmth at the point, but the sensation is usually very mild and fades quickly.
What can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat:
- Back, neck, and joint pain
- Herniated discs and sciatica
- Headaches and migraines
- Anxiety, stress, and insomnia
- Hormonal imbalances and infertility
- Digestive issues (IBS, reflux, bloating)
- Fatigue, immune weakness, and inflammation
- Chemotherapy side effects and post-surgical recovery
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. Acupuncture is extremely safe when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. At Balance, we use only sterile, single-use needles and follow strict clinical hygiene protocols. Most patients experience no side effects, though some may have temporary soreness or slight bruising.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on your condition, its severity, and how long you’ve had it. Acute problems may respond in a few sessions, while chronic or complex issues typically require consistent care. Most patients start with 1–2 sessions per week and taper down as they improve.
Methods & Techniques We Use
What is Tan Balance Method Acupuncture?
The Tan Balance Method is a strategic style of acupuncture that uses distal points—meaning we treat areas away from the site of pain using meridian relationships. This method often produces immediate relief and is especially effective for pain, inflammation, and internal conditions. It’s highly precise and deeply rooted in classical Chinese medicine theory.
What is Korean Hand Therapy (KHT)?
Korean Hand Therapy is a microsystem where the entire body is mapped onto the hand. By stimulating specific hand points, we can influence internal organs, relieve pain, calm the nervous system, and support home care. It’s gentle and ideal for those sensitive to body needling.
Insurance & Care Coordination
Can I do acupuncture while undergoing other medical treatments?
Absolutely. Acupuncture works well alongside conventional medicine, physical therapy, and treatments like IVF or chemotherapy. It can reduce medication side effects, support recovery, and improve your overall outcome.
Will insurance cover acupuncture?
In North Carolina, insurance does not cover acupuncture performed by a licensed acupuncturist, with two exceptions:
- We accept Medicare for chronic low back pain
- We accept VA referrals through the Community Care Network
If your private insurance says it covers acupuncture, we can provide you with a superbill to submit for possible reimbursement. We do not bill insurance directly, and payment is due at the time of service.
How do I get started?
Call to book an initial consultation with Dr. Meng Xiong. He’ll review your health history, assess your condition, and create a personalized plan tailored to your goals. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, hormonal imbalance, or stress, we’re here to help you feel better—naturally.
Pain & Orthopedic Conditions
Does acupuncture help with sciatica?
Yes. Acupuncture can relieve inflammation and pressure on the sciatic nerve, reduce pain radiating down the leg, and improve mobility—without medication or surgery.
Can acupuncture treat a herniated disc?
Absolutely. Acupuncture reduces inflammation, relaxes surrounding muscles, and promotes circulation to help relieve disc-related back pain naturally.
Is acupuncture effective for neck and shoulder pain?
Yes. Acupuncture is commonly used to release muscle tension, ease nerve compression, and reduce chronic pain in the neck and shoulder area.
Can acupuncture help with chronic low back pain?
Acupuncture is one of the most researched natural treatments for chronic low back pain and is even covered by Medicare for eligible patients.
Is acupuncture good for arthritis?
Yes. Whether it’s osteoarthritis or autoimmune-related, acupuncture helps reduce joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. It improves circulation to affected joints and supports natural pain relief. Many patients find they can reduce their use of pain medications after regular treatment.
Can acupuncture reduce inflammation naturally?
Yes. Acupuncture activates anti-inflammatory pathways in the body and lowers markers like cytokines and CRP. It’s a great option for chronic inflammatory conditions such as joint pain, autoimmune disorders, or post-injury recovery.
Want to understand how acupuncture compares to dry needling for muscle pain? Read our full blog: Dry Needling Vs. Acupuncture
Nerve & Neurological Conditions
Can acupuncture treat neuropathy or nerve pain?
Yes. Acupuncture is effective for treating neuropathy caused by diabetes, chemotherapy, or nerve compression. It improves circulation, reduces inflammation around the nerves, and helps restore nerve function. Patients often report less tingling, numbness, and burning after consistent treatment.
Does acupuncture work for migraines or tension headaches
Absolutely. Acupuncture reduces both the frequency and intensity of migraines and tension headaches. It relieves muscle tension, regulates serotonin, and calms overactive nerves. Clinical studies show that acupuncture can be as effective as medication, but without the side effects.
Women’s Health & Fertility
Can acupuncture help regulate my menstrual cycle?
Yes. Acupuncture can balance hormones, support ovulation, and reduce PMS or irregular bleeding by improving communication between the brain and ovaries.
Does acupuncture help with PCOS?
Acupuncture can improve ovulation, lower testosterone levels, and regulate menstrual cycles in patients with PCOS. It’s a safe, drug-free option for hormonal balance.
Can acupuncture support IVF or IUI success?
Yes. Studies show that acupuncture can improve blood flow to the uterus, reduce stress, and increase pregnancy rates when timed properly with IVF or IUI cycles.
Mental Health & Stress
Does acupuncture work for anxiety or depression?
Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, balance cortisol, and improve mood—making it a powerful support tool for anxiety, depression, and emotional imbalance.
Can acupuncture improve sleep or help with insomnia?
Yes. Acupuncture calms overactive brain activity and supports melatonin regulation, helping people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Digestive & Immune Health
Can acupuncture help with IBS or bloating?
Acupuncture improves gut motility, reduces inflammation, and calms the nervous system—making it effective for conditions like IBS, gas, and digestive discomfort.
Does acupuncture help with GERD or acid reflux?
Yes. Acupuncture can reduce stomach acid sensitivity, regulate digestion, and improve symptoms of reflux naturally, without side effects.
Can acupuncture boost my immune system?
Research shows acupuncture can increase immune cell activity and reduce inflammation—helpful for chronic fatigue, allergies, or frequent illness.
Ready to See How Acupuncture Can Help You?
If you’re living with any of the conditions above, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Acupuncture offers a safe, proven, and natural way to restore balance and relieve symptoms without relying solely on medications or invasive treatments.