Although there’s a lot of research that shows the effectiveness of ­alternative treatments (like acupuncture for chronic headaches), most insurers cover complementary and alternative medicine only if your employer adds a rider to its ­policy—and few do.

Try this Your FSA can help you here, too. The same applies if you have a tax-free high-deductible indemnity plan with a health savings account (HSA).

If all else fails Shop around for the best deal. Consider doctors who are schooled in alternative (or integrative) medicine as well as nonphysicians specially trained in the various techniques that interest you.