What does a chiropractor do?
A chiropractor treats back, neck, and joint problems, often with spinal adjustment. Coverage for chiropractic visits varies by plan, so check before you book.
Last updated November 11, 2026
When people see one
- You have back or neck pain.
- You want a non-surgical option for joint or muscle pain.
- Your doctor suggests chiropractic care.
How it differs
Physical therapist: A physical therapist focuses on exercise and movement training. A chiropractor focuses on spinal adjustment.
Orthopedic surgeon: An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who treats bone and joint conditions, including with surgery. A chiropractor does not perform surgery or prescribe medication.
On 2027 Colorado plans
Do you need a referral? Plan filings list referral rules only for specialists. Some plans need a doctor's order or prior approval for this care, so check the plan's summary of benefits.
What a visit costs (the plan's filed "Chiropractic Care" benefit, in network, before any extra savings on silver plans):
- Bronze: $25 to $100 a visit on 14 of 56 plans; on the other 42, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
- Silver: $0 to $90 a visit on 48 of 58 plans; on the other 10, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
- Gold: $0 to $55 a visit on 24 of 30 plans; on the other 6, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
In-network care costs less. Out-of-network visits on an HMO or EPO usually aren't covered except in an emergency.
In Colorado
Public records list 1,961 chiropractors at 1,489 Colorado locations. Colorado shows 8,434 active licenses of this kind, including people who don't see patients or work out of state.
- El Paso County: 196 locations
- Jefferson County: 171 locations
- Denver County: 163 locations
- Arapahoe County: 148 locations
- Boulder County: 142 locations
- Larimer County: 129 locations
Counties with the fewest: San Miguel (1), Rio Grande (1), Ouray (1), Mineral (1), Lincoln (1). 13 counties have none.
Questions to ask the office
- Are you taking new patients?
- Do you bill my 2027 plan? Which plan and network name do you use?
- How many visits does my plan cover, and do I need a referral?
- How long is the wait for a first appointment?