Follow Dr. Tony
Follow Dr. Tony
A note from UFC fighter Daniel “Soncoro” Marcos of Peru — “Incredible experience,” in his own words.
Dry needling is a modern, evidence-based needle therapy that targets myofascial trigger points — tight, hypersensitive knots within muscle tissue associated with local and referred pain, restricted movement, and impaired neuromuscular function. Using fine filiform needles inserted precisely into these trigger points, dry needling is used to help release muscle tension, support normal tissue function, ease pain, and improve circulation — a drug-free approach for both athletes and everyday patients.
While dry needling and traditional acupuncture both use fine needles, they work from different frameworks. Dry needling is grounded in modern Western anatomy, neuroscience, and musculoskeletal medicine — targeting specific anatomical structures based on biomechanical assessment. Traditional acupuncture follows the principles of Chinese medicine, balancing the body’s energy through meridian-based point selection. At Acupuncture Zen, Dr. Tony Willcox is trained in both — offering each approach independently or in combination, based on your individual needs.
Dr. Tony Willcox holds advanced certifications in dry needling from the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy (AAMT).
These certifications — combined with over 20 years of acupuncture clinical experience and doctoral training in China — place Dr. Tony among the most comprehensively trained dry needling practitioners in South Florida.
As the official Acupuncture Physician on the medical team for the Blackzilians, Dr. Tony provided dry needling, trigger point, and traditional acupuncture to support injury prevention, recovery, stress relief, and performance — treating fighters competing on the main card of major UFC events. Training camp for a UFC main card fight is relentless: two-a-day sessions, sparring, strength work, and weight cuts that push the body to its absolute limit, week after week — and Dr. Tony’s role was to help fighters withstand that load and arrive at fight night in peak condition. World-class fighters and athletes use targeted dry needling as part of their recovery from training camp injuries, muscle tightness, scar tissue restrictions, and impaired circulation — the same discipline and precision Dr. Tony brings to every patient at Acupuncture Zen, whether you’re stepping into the cage or simply trying to get through your day pain-free
Dr. Tony and Eddie Alvarez “The Underground King” — back in the Blackzilian Days! Former UFC and Bellator Lightweight Champion.
L to R: Luiz Buscape, Alexandre “Pulga” Pimentel, Jason Jackson, Felipe Portela, Vincente Luque, Carrington Banks, Andrews Nakahara, Valdir Araujo & Kamaru Usman
As the Official Acupuncturist on the Florida Panthers Medical Team, Dr. Tony supported professional hockey players through the demands of an NHL season — using dry needling alongside acupuncture and other modalities to help address muscle injuries, tightness, and recovery between games. An 82-game regular season, often with back-to-back games and grueling travel schedules, leaves little time for recovery between matchups — making fast, effective treatment essential to keeping players on the ice. Dr. Tony became a trusted part of the Panthers’ medical team, providing care that helped players push through the physical toll of a full NHL season, from training camp through the playoff run.
Dry needling at Acupuncture Zen is used as part of personalized treatment plans for a wide range of conditions, including:
Musculoskeletal & Pain Conditions — chronic and acute back, neck, and shoulder pain; myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points; sciatica and nerve pain; headaches and migraines; hip, knee, and joint pain; plantar fasciitis and heel pain; tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow; Achilles tendinopathy.
Sports & Athletic Injuries — muscle strains and sports injuries; rotator cuff injuries; IT band syndrome; hamstring and quadriceps injuries; calf and Achilles tightness; post-surgical scar tissue restrictions; performance and recovery support.
Neuromuscular Conditions — muscle spasm and guarding; restricted range of motion; postural dysfunction; nerve entrapment and impingement.
At Acupuncture Zen, you don’t have to choose. Dr. Tony’s dual training means he can assess your specific condition and recommend the most appropriate approach — or combine both therapies in a single session. Many patients receive dry needling for targeted trigger point release alongside traditional acupuncture for broader pain relief, nervous system support, and overall balance.
After an evaluation, Dr. Tony will identify the specific trigger points or anatomical targets for treatment. Fine, sterile, single-use needles are inserted precisely into the target tissue — you may feel a brief local twitch response, often considered a positive sign that the trigger point is releasing. Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. It’s common to feel mild muscle soreness for a day or two afterward — similar to the feeling after a deep workout — which is a normal part of the tissue’s response.
Yes. Dry needling uses fine, sterile, single-use needles and is a well-established, evidence-based technique. Most patients tolerate it well, though it’s normal to feel mild muscle soreness for a day or two afterward — similar to the feeling after a deep workout. Be sure to share your full medical history with Dr. Tony before treatment.
You may feel a brief local twitch response when the needle reaches the trigger point — often considered a positive sign that the muscle is releasing. Beyond that, most patients find the sensation manageable and far less uncomfortable than they expect going in.
Dry needling is grounded in modern Western anatomy, neuroscience, and musculoskeletal medicine — targeting specific anatomical structures based on biomechanical assessment. Traditional acupuncture follows the principles of Chinese medicine, balancing the body’s energy through meridian-based point selection. At Acupuncture Zen, Dr. Tony is trained in both and can recommend the right approach, or combine them, based on your condition.
Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. Acute issues often respond within a few sessions, while chronic conditions usually benefit from a longer course of treatment. Dr. Tony will build a plan based on your evaluation and how your body responds.
Dry needling is priced the same as an acupuncture treatment. Visit our Fee Schedule for current pricing, or call 561-633-3537 — we’re happy to answer any questions before you book.
Acupuncture Zen · 900 E Atlantic Ave, Suite 11, Delray Beach, FL 33483 · 📞 561-633-3537. Serving Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Lake Worth, West Palm Beach, and all of South Florida.
“10/10. Dr. Tony’s expertise in acupuncture and dry needling is truly outstanding. From the first visit, he welcomed me like an old friend, listening attentively and tailoring each session to meet my specific needs. If you’re seeking holistic healing in a serene zen space, look no further.”
— Josh S., Verified Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Dr. Tony’s knowledge and expertise are evident in the way he educates you about the treatment given. The dry needling Dr. Tony performs is incredibly effective, in combination with cupping and traditional acupuncture. All around the best place to help take care of your body and aid in overall well-being.”
— Dan B., Verified Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I have had lots of acupuncture and dry needling in my life, and Dr. Tony is one of the best. I experienced some immediate relief, and I can’t wait to go back. If you have any ailment or just want to feel and perform your best, this is the place to go.”
— Laura G., Local Guide, Verified Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
