you pretty much have the technique!!

It is also possible to unsolder the SMT device legs in some cases and bend the lead up. Then solder a small wire to the leg and another to the underlying pad. Connect your meter to these wires.

Solving the type of problem you have can be a challenge. Particularly if it is a circuit layout problem what has casued two circuits to be shorted. I have had thorny problems whereby misplaced vias were stuck through ground or power planes without the proper clearance.

Michael Karas