Follow Dr. Tony
Follow Dr. Tony
Those small cables are part of electro-acupuncture, a well-studied addition to traditional acupuncture. At Acupuncture Zen, this is also what microcurrent therapy means: a gentle electrical current delivered through the needles. Dr. Tony Willcox works with the ITO ES-160. This 6-channel electro-acupuncture device also has a strong reputation among practitioners.
Small alligator clips attach directly to the acupuncture needles. They then send a gentle, controlled electrical current through the needle. As a result, the current reaches the muscles, nerves, and connective tissue below. Surface electrode pads, however, cannot match that depth and precision. In addition, researchers associate this stimulation with the following at the cellular level:
The frequency of stimulation is also a clinical choice. For example, lower frequencies tend to trigger the release of endorphins and enkephalins, the body’s natural painkillers. Higher frequencies, however, engage a separate pathway involving dynorphins and serotonin. Therefore, Dr. Tony uses the ITO ES-160’s precise controls to tune each session. He aims to activate the response that best suits your condition. In other words, he tailors the setting to you instead of using one for everyone.
Dr. Tony applies electro-acupuncture as part of a personalized plan. For example, it may support back, neck, and shoulder pain, sciatica, and knee and joint pain. It may also support nerve pain, sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, and headaches. In addition, some patients use it for stress-related tension and sleep difficulty.
Electro-acupuncture feels more comfortable and relaxing than most patients expect. In fact, many describe the gentle rhythmic pulsing as deeply meditative. Sessions run 20 to 30 minutes. They also often become a welcome part of a patient’s care routine early on.
However, electrical stimulation therapy does not suit everyone. Dr. Tony does not recommend electro-acupuncture or microcurrent for patients with pacemakers. The same applies to certain other implanted electronic medical devices. Therefore, please tell Dr. Tony about any implanted devices or relevant medical history before treatment.
Electro-acupuncture is one of several advanced modalities at Acupuncture Zen. Others include acupuncture, K-Laser therapy, NovoTHOR® red light therapy, and Chinese herbal medicine. However, Dr. Tony recommends each one based on your specific condition and goals.
Yes. Electro-acupuncture delivers a gentle, controlled electrical current through the needle. In addition, most patients find it comfortable and relaxing. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone. For example, Dr. Tony does not use it for patients with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other implanted electronic medical devices. He also takes extra care with anyone who has a history of heart disease or a cardiac condition. Therefore, please tell him about any implanted devices, heart conditions, or other relevant medical history beforehand. He can then tailor your care accordingly.
No — most patients are surprised by how comfortable and relaxing it feels. The sensation is a gentle, rhythmic pulsing that many describe as deeply meditative, not painful at all.
Traditional acupuncture uses stillness — needles are inserted and retained without movement. Electro-acupuncture adds a small electrical current directly through the needle, delivering continuous, controlled stimulation to the muscles, nerves, and connective tissue below — reaching a depth and precision that surface electrode pads can’t replicate.
Sessions typically run 20 to 50 minutes, depending on your treatment plan — sometimes both the front and back of the body are treated in the same visit. Many patients find the rhythmic pulsing becomes a welcome part of their care routine early on.
Electro-acupuncture is included at no additional cost as part of your acupuncture treatment. For pricing on other therapies, visit our Fee Schedule, or call 561-633-3537 with any questions.
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.
“Dr. Tony’s approach is unlike anything I’ve experienced. His combination of skill, intuition, and genuine care makes every session worth it. Every treatment is very personalized — he uses as many needles as needed, and the glass cupping is a great addition. Speaking as a professional athlete who has seen more than a few acupuncturists, Dr. Tony is by far one of the most skilled I’ve seen.”
— Jadon, Verified Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I can’t recommend Dr. Tony Willcox highly enough! I was visiting Delray Beach when I woke up with severe shoulder and neck pain. I called the office, and they kindly fit me in the same day. From the moment I walked in, the experience was exceptional — Dr. Tony is incredibly knowledgeable, caring, and effective, and his staff made me feel so welcome. If you’re looking for an acupuncturist who truly gets results, I highly recommend him. I’m so grateful I found him when I needed help the most!”
— Brittany B., Verified Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Everything is energy, and you will be in great hands here. Even after one session, I feel the difference. Thank you so much!”
— Ali K., Local Guide, Verified Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
