How to choose a chiropractor

The questions to ask, what Medicare and insurance usually cover, and when to see a medical doctor first.

The short answer

Check the license, ask what the first visit involves and what it costs, make sure the plan is explained before treatment starts, and check what your insurance or Medicare covers.

Eight questions to ask a chiropractor

Are you licensed in this state, and what is your license number?
What happens at the first visit, and how long does it take?
What does a visit cost, and do you work with my insurance or Medicare?
Will you explain your findings and the plan, and how many visits you expect, before treatment starts?
Do you take X-rays or order other imaging, and when do you think they are needed?
Which techniques do you use, and are there other options if I am not comfortable with one?
When do you refer patients to a medical doctor or another provider?
What are your payment, package and cancellation policies?

Check the license first

Every state licenses chiropractors, and every state page on this site links to the official lookup. How to check a license.

Medicare and insurance

Medicare

According to Medicare, Part B covers adjustments of the spine by a chiropractor to correct a subluxation, done by hand or with a device called an activator. Medicare does not cover other services or tests a chiropractor orders, such as X-rays, massage therapy and acupuncture. After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. Source: medicare.gov. Medicare Advantage plans can differ – ask your plan.

Private insurance

Many health plans cover some chiropractic care, often with a visit limit, a copay or a referral rule. Before your first visit, ask your insurer whether the chiropractor is in network, how many visits a year are covered, and whether X-rays are covered. Ask the practice whether it bills your insurer or asks you to pay and claim it back.

Auto accidents and work injuries

Care after a car accident or a work injury is sometimes paid through auto insurance or workers’ compensation, depending on your state and policy. Ask your insurer or employer before you start, and ask the practice whether it works with those claims.

When to see a medical doctor first

Seek medical care first – and call 911 in an emergency – if back or neck pain comes with numbness or weakness in the legs or arms, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, unexplained weight loss, or follows a serious fall or accident. This is general information, not medical advice.

Reasons to ask more questions

Being asked to prepay for a long package of visits before an exam.
A plan that is not explained, or no clear point at which it will be reviewed.
Reluctance to give a license number or to share records with your doctor.

None of these proves a problem, but each is a reason to ask before you commit.

Find a chiropractor near you

Practices in 50 metro areas, listed A to Z with the chiropractors’ names.

Show chiropractors

Questions

Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?

Usually not – chiropractors can see patients directly. Some insurance plans require a referral before they pay, so check your plan.

How many visits will I need?

It depends on the person and the reason for the visit. Ask the chiropractor to explain the plan, how progress will be checked, and when the plan will be reviewed.

Should I prepay for a package of visits?

Some practices offer packages. Ask what happens if you stop early, whether unused visits are refunded, and get the terms in writing before you pay.

General information, not medical, insurance or legal advice. Coverage details change; check with Medicare or your plan.