Does Medicare cover acupuncture?
Sometimes. Part B helps pay for acupuncture only for long-term low back pain.
What will you pay?
With Original Medicare: You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the yearly Part B deductible ($283 in 2026).
With a Medicare Advantage plan: Medicare Advantage plans must cover it too, but your costs and rules can differ. Check your plan. Compare plans near you.
What are the rules?
- The pain must last 12 weeks or more with no clear cause.
- Up to 12 visits in 90 days. You may get 8 more if it helps.
- A qualified doctor or nurse must do it.
What should you do next?
Ask free Medicare counselingSource: Medicare.gov: Acupuncture (opens in a new tab). Checked Oct 21, 2026. Costs are for 2026. This is general information, not medical advice.