Rooted in Santa Cruz. Focused on keeping you moving.
Santa Cruz Acupuncture Orthopedics & Sports Medicine has been helping people recover from pain and injury and return to the activities they love since 2003.
A tradition of orthopedic acupuncture in Santa Cruz.
The clinic was founded in 2003 by Anthony Von der Muhll, LAC, DNBAO, FAIPM, who developed a practice focused on acupuncture orthopedics, sports medicine and pain management.
When Anthony retired, he chose Dr. Daniel Rola, DTCM, LAC, to continue the practice. That transition preserved an established tradition while allowing the clinic to evolve with contemporary approaches to sports medicine, pain management and rehabilitation.
Local roots. Integrative medicine. A passion for movement.
Dr. Daniel Rola, DTCM, L.Ac., is a California-licensed acupuncturist and Santa Cruz County native specializing in orthopedic acupuncture, sports medicine and pain management. He earned his master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine at Five Branches University in 2016 and his doctorate in 2021. His integrative approach combines traditional medicine with orthopedic examination and movement assessment, with care tailored to the whole person. He collaborates with physicians and therapists when appropriate to support each patient’s recovery.
Daniel’s work is grounded in curiosity about how the body works and a commitment to serving his community. Alongside acupuncture, his training includes manual therapies, herbal medicine and mindfulness practices. Outside the clinic, he enjoys biking, hiking, surfing, making music and spending time outdoors with his wife and daughter.
Education
Doctor and Master of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Five Branches University, Santa Cruz.
Licensure & certifications
California-licensed acupuncturist; Certified Massage Practitioner; Medical Qigong certification.
Professional experience
Private practice in Santa Cruz; instructor for the Trauma & Orthopedics Club at Five Branches University; credentialed acupuncture provider with Palo Alto/Santa Cruz Medical Foundation.
Professional memberships
American Society of Acupuncturists and California State Oriental Medical Association.
Health is more than the absence of pain.
Daniel describes a lifelong curiosity about how the body works and a desire to help people stay connected to the activities that make life meaningful.
“I enjoy figuring out why something hurts, understanding how it’s affecting the whole person, and developing a treatment strategy that helps them move forward. Ultimately, my goal is simple: provide thoughtful, effective care and help people get back to doing the things that make their lives better.”