If you’re thinking about seeing a chiropractor, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is: “How much does a chiropractor cost?” The good news is, chiropractic care is more affordable than many people think—and it can actually help save money in the long run by avoiding costly surgeries or medications.
At Riverstone Chiropractic in Oakland, CA, we believe in being transparent about pricing so you can make smart choices about your health and your wallet. In this post, I’ll walk you through what you can expect to pay for chiropractic care, what factors influence the cost, and how to find a plan that works for you.
What Does Chiropractic Care Typically Cost?
Chiropractic costs can vary a lot based on where you live, what kind of treatment you need, and how often you go. On average:
- Initial consultation & exam: $50–$275
- Regular adjustment: $40–$150 per session
- Special treatments (like spinal decompression or laser therapy): $100+
Factors That Affect Chiropractic Costs
1. Type of Treatment
Simple adjustments cost less, while more involved treatments like spinal decompression, cold laser therapy, or soft tissue work can be more expensive. At Riverstone Chiropractic, we personalize every care plan so you only get what you need—no upselling, ever.
2. Frequency of Visits
How often you need to come in depends on your condition. Some folks only need care once a month for maintenance. Others with injuries or chronic pain might need care more often, especially at the beginning.
3. Your Age & Health
Children and seniors may need gentler or more specific treatments. People dealing with chronic pain, sports injuries, or postural issues might need longer care plans, which can affect pricing.
4. Clinic Location
Prices are usually higher in big cities than in smaller towns. Here in Oakland, we work hard to keep prices competitive without sacrificing the quality of care.
What About Insurance Coverage?
Many health insurance plans cover chiropractic care, at least partially. But not all do—and some only cover a certain number of visits each year or require a copay. At Riverstone Chiropractic, to ensure the highest quality of patient care, we’re out of network with all the insurance companies, but will gladly issue a Superbill upon request. That’s a receipt with the diagnosis and procedure codes detailed out, that you can submit directly to your insurance company to attempt reimbursement for any out of network coverage you may have.
Pro tip: Always call your insurance provider to verify the details of any out-of-network benefits that you may have, before your first visit.
Affordable Chiropractic Care Plans
There’s never any pressure to commit to a care plan. All sessions can be paid for individually/as you go. We also offer flexible options to make care more budget-friendly:
- Monthly care plans for ongoing wellness
- Family packages for multiple people (so you can plan out for how much a chiropractor costs)
- Prepay discounts if you want to buy a bundle of sessions in advance
- Occasional seasonal promotions (join our email list to stay updated!)
Why Long-Term Chiropractic Plans Save You Money
While paying per visit works for some, long-term plans can be more cost-effective. You’ll often get a discounted rate per session, and regular care can help prevent bigger (and more expensive) health issues down the road.
Plus, when you know what your care plan looks like, it’s easier to budget for your health.
Why Chiropractic Care Is a Smart Investment
Many people worry about the upfront cost of chiropractic care—but don’t forget about the long-term benefits:
- Prevent injuries and surgery
- Avoid medications with unwanted side effects
- Improve mobility and comfort
- Stay active, productive, and pain-free
Investing in your spine and nervous system is a smart move for your body and your wallet.
FAQs About “How Much Does a Chiropractor Cost?”
How much does it cost to see a chiropractor for the first time?
The initial visit usually costs between $50–$275, depending on the clinic. This visit often includes a detailed exam and sometimes X-rays if needed. Our most current costs for a new patient visit are transparently posted on our booking page.
How much is a chiropractic adjustment?
A standard adjustment can cost anywhere from $40 to $150, depending on your location and the complexity of care. Pricing of a session with Dr. Baird includes chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy. No quick “whack-and-crack” adjustments here! Current pricing is posted on our booking page.
Is chiropractic care covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover chiropractic, but coverage varies. At Riverstone Chiropractic, we take payment at the time of service and will assist you, at your request, with providing a detailed receipt that you can submit directly to your insurance company if you think you may have some out-of-network coverage.
Is it cheaper to pay out of pocket or use insurance?
It depends on your plan. Sometimes cash rates or care packages can be more affordable than using insurance, especially if you have a high deductible.
How often should I see a chiropractor?
That depends on your condition and your goals. Some patients come weekly at first, then taper off to monthly maintenance. We’ll help you find a plan that fits.
FAQs About Riverstone Chiropractic (Oakland, CA)
Where is Riverstone Chiropractic located?
We’re in the Grand Lake neighborhood of Oakland, California, easily accessible and close to BART/bus.
Who is Dr. Sandy Baird, DC?
I’m a licensed chiropractor with a passion for helping patients live active, pain-free lives—without drugs or surgery. I use a personalized, holistic approach to care.
What kinds of treatments do you offer?
We offer chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue work, athletic rehab, and more—always tailored to your specific needs.
Do you offer payment plans or packages?
Absolutely. We provide flexible payment options, including monthly plans, prepay discounts, and more. Our goal is to make care affordable and stress-free. We also offer several sliding scale spots per week for folks in need of that.
Ready to Start Your Chiropractic Journey?
Whether you’re looking for pain relief, better posture, or a healthier spine, chiropractic care is a safe and effective choice. At Riverstone Chiropractic, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with care plans that work for your body and your budget.
👉 Call us or book online to schedule your first visit and see how chiropractic care can help you feel your best—naturally.
