Medicare Part B covers acupuncture only for qualifying chronic low back pain. It covers up to 12 treatments in 90 days, with eight additional treatments if you improve.
Medicare Part B covers acupuncture only for qualifying chronic low back pain. The pain must:
- Have lasted at least 12 weeks
- Have no identified cause such as cancer, infection, or inflammatory disease
- Not be associated with surgery or pregnancy
Coverage includes dry needling when the same requirements are met.
How Many Treatments Are Covered?
Medicare covers up to 12 treatments in a 90-day period. If you show improvement, it may cover eight additional sessions, for a maximum of 20 treatments in a 12-month period.
If you are not improving, Medicare will not cover continued treatment.
Who Can Provide Covered Acupuncture?
Medicare does not pay licensed acupuncturists directly for this benefit. An eligible provider must bill Medicare for the treatment, and the care must meet Medicare’s supervision, education, and licensing rules. Medicare identifies eligible practitioners.
After the Part B deductible, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
See Medicare's acupuncture coverage page for current criteria.
Before the first visit, ask the billing office whether it can submit this acupuncture service to Medicare. If more than 12 sessions are proposed, ask how the provider will document improvement and show that you qualify for the additional treatments.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage must cover qualifying chronic low back pain treatment. Some plans may cover additional acupuncture, but plan networks, visit limits, referrals, and copayments apply.
Medicare policy sources last checked: October 8, 2026.