Quick answer
Some of it. Health plans often cover chiropractic care and sometimes acupuncture, usually with visit limits and a copay. Most don’t cover herbal remedies, homeopathy, naturopathy, yoga or tai chi. Medicare covers acupuncture only for chronic low back pain, and chiropractic care only for spinal adjustments to correct a subluxation.
Key takeaways
- Chiropractic care is the alternative treatment plans cover most often, usually with a yearly visit limit. See does insurance cover chiropractors.
- Acupuncture coverage varies. Some plans cover it for pain, often for a set number of visits.
- Herbal supplements and homeopathic remedies usually aren’t covered.
- Medicare covers acupuncture for chronic low back pain (up to 12 visits in 90 days, and up to 20 a year) and chiropractic spinal adjustments for subluxation.
- You can use HSA or FSA money for acupuncture and chiropractic care.
On this page
What’s usually covered
| Treatment | Usually covered? |
|---|---|
| Chiropractic care | Often, with visit limits |
| Acupuncture | Sometimes, often for pain |
| Massage therapy | Rarely on its own; sometimes as part of physical therapy |
| Herbal medicine and supplements | No |
| Homeopathy and naturopathy | Rarely |
| Yoga, tai chi and meditation classes | No, though some wellness programs offer discounts |
For more detail, see acupuncture, massage and CBD oil. For some problems, like back pain, your plan may pay for chiropractic care or physical therapy before it approves more invasive treatment; see what type of health insurance covers surgery.
How to check your coverage
- Look in your benefits. Search your plan documents for chiropractic and acupuncture; see types of health insurance coverage.
- Ask about the rules. Find out whether the provider needs a certain license, whether you need a referral, and how many visits are covered.
- Use an in-network provider. Out-of-network visits may not be covered at all.
- Know what you’ll pay. Many plans charge a copay for each visit; see do copays count toward your deductible.
- Ask about member discounts. Many insurers offer discounts on alternative care even when they don’t cover it.
Medicare
Medicare Part B covers:
- Acupuncture for chronic low back pain: up to 12 visits in 90 days, and up to 20 visits a year if you’re improving.
- Chiropractic care for spinal adjustments to correct a subluxation. It doesn’t cover other services a chiropractor orders, like X-rays, massage or acupuncture.
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible. Some Medicare Advantage plans cover more.
Paying out of pocket
Acupuncture and chiropractic care are qualified medical expenses, so you can use HSA or FSA money. Herbal supplements and natural remedies don’t qualify unless a medical practitioner recommends them to treat a specific condition diagnosed by a physician.
Choosing a plan
If alternative care is part of your routine, compare chiropractic and acupuncture benefits, visit limits and copays when you shop. See the best health insurance companies.
Compare plans in your area: see quotes by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
Does health insurance cover chiropractors?
Often, yes, usually with a yearly visit limit and a copay.
Does health insurance cover acupuncture?
Sometimes. Coverage depends on your plan, and many plans limit it to pain conditions.
Can I use my HSA for alternative medicine?
Yes for acupuncture and chiropractic care. Supplements qualify only in limited cases.
Does Medicare cover alternative medicine?
Only acupuncture for chronic low back pain and chiropractic adjustments for subluxation.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Last reviewed September 2026.