Does Medicare cover chiropractic?

According to Medicare.gov, Medicare Part B covers manual manipulation of the spine when it's medically necessary to correct a subluxation, done by a chiropractor or another qualified provider.

• Not covered: other services or tests a chiropractor orders, including X-rays, massage therapy and acupuncture (except acupuncture for chronic low back pain under separate rules).
• Your cost: 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies.
• Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least the same and may add extra chiropractic benefits. Check your plan.

Checked against Medicare.gov on 21 Oct 2026. Not legal or insurance advice.

Medicare Advantage and Medigap

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check its Evidence of Coverage or call the plan for chiropractic rules, network requirements and any visit limits. Medigap policies can help with the 20% coinsurance on covered spinal manipulation.

What to ask the clinic

Ask whether the chiropractor accepts Medicare assignment, which services on your visit Medicare will cover, and what you will pay out of pocket for anything else, such as exams or therapies. Clinics may ask you to sign an Advance Beneficiary Notice before services Medicare may not pay for.

Medically necessary care

Medicare pays for manipulation when it is treating an active problem and helping you improve. Ongoing "maintenance" care usually is not covered, so ask how the clinic decides when care moves from active to maintenance.

Medicaid and dual eligibility

If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, Medicaid may help with costs Medicare does not cover, depending on your state. Ask your state Medicaid office or plan whether chiropractic is included.