Frequently asked questions

No. That decision is made in the consultation, after an assessment, and it is Dr Nalla who makes it. Most patients book a consultation without knowing which of the three approaches applies to them, which is the normal position.

No. Every case is assessed conventionally first, with a history and a clinical examination. Where a case needs bloods, imaging or a specialist opinion, that is what is arranged.

Homeopathy and medical acupuncture are used alongside conventional care here, not in place of it.

No. Please bring it with you, or a list of it, including anything prescribed elsewhere and anything bought over the counter. Nothing is stopped without discussion.

A first appointment takes longer than a follow up, because the history is fuller. Confirm the length when you book so you can plan around it.

The needles are considerably finer than the ones used to take blood. Most people describe the sensation as a dull ache or a heaviness rather than a sharp pain.

If you are uneasy about needles, say so at the start of the appointment rather than at the end. The number of points used can be kept low, and other approaches can be discussed instead.

Yes, and for children it is done with a laser rather than with needles. Most children are frightened of needles, so the same points are treated with a low intensity laser held against the skin. Nothing pierces the skin and there is nothing sharp to see.

No. They are sterile, single use, and disposed of after your session.

Some people find the session itself restful. Others feel tired for an hour or so afterwards. It is sensible not to plan anything demanding immediately after a first session, until you know how you respond.

It follows a conventional assessment rather than replacing one. The consultation is longer than a general appointment, because the prescription depends on detail a short appointment does not reach.

Existing medication is taken into account, and homeopathy is not presented as suitable for every case.

Yes. The practice submits your claim to your medical aid directly. You do not pay the full account on the day and claim it back yourself.

Consultation and follow up fees are being confirmed and will be published on the fees page. Please ask when you book, so there is no surprise on the day.

There are two. Northcliff Medical Centre, on the corner of Beyers Naudé Drive and Acacia Road, where the building is set back from Beyers Naudé Drive and the entrance is off Acacia Road. There is ample parking on site.

The second rooms are at 26 Deville Street, Paarlshoop, with street parking outside. They have their own telephone number, so please use that one when you book there.

The practice has moved, so older listings may still show a previous address. The contact page has current directions for both.

Consulting days and times are being confirmed and will be published here. Please phone or send a WhatsApp in the meantime.

WhatsApp is quickest. Send your name and what you would like to be seen for, and the practice will come back to you with a time. You can also phone during consulting hours, or use the enquiry form if you would rather write.

This is not an emergency service, and the enquiry form is not monitored after hours. If the matter is urgent, phone the practice. If it is an emergency, go to your nearest emergency department or call an ambulance service directly.