Dr. Cruz grew up in Key West, Florida. While in high school he developed in interest in health that eventually led to his deciding to enter the exciting career of chiropractic. After graduating from Life College School of Chiropractic in 1981, he moved to Burnsville, North Carolina because he decided early on that he wanted to spend the rest of his life in an area where “quality of life” was an important issue. This small mountain community with plenty of hiking & fishing opportunities was exactly that. He also knew it would be a great place to eventually raise a family.

Dr. Cruz considers health & chiropractic part of his lifestyle as well as his career. He is constantly striving to learn and grow while staying on the forefront of new technology. He has studied with some of the leading experts in their fields including Dr.’s Alex & Doug Cox of the famed Gonstead Clinic, Dr. Janet Travel, developer of myofascial treatments, Robin McKenzie, developer of the McKenzie technique being used worldwide for treatment of back and neck pain and Dr’s. Stu & Teresa Warner who travel the globe teaching on natural health care for children. Dr. Cruz now uses his knowledge and leadership skills traveling through the US to teach other doctors about family wellness and healthy lifestyles.

His certifications include, Gonstead Diplomate from the Gonstead Clinical Studies Society, Chiropractic Pediatrics, International Academy of Chiropractic Occupational Health Consultants, Chiropractic Rehabilitation Association, Motion Palpation Institute, Southeast Back Institute for back injury prevention and aerobic exercise injury prevention and many more hours of additional workshop seminars to keep up-to-date, but more importantly fuel the passion for what he does.

Dr. Cruz also is very active in his community, having served on the board and as Chair of the Mitchell-Yancey Mountain Friends Program & Healthy Yancey. Dr. Cruz currently serves on the board for Centro Enlace in Yancey and Centro Latino in Mitchell County. He has coached youth league baseball and softball and along with his family is very active in his church, Abundant Life Outreach in Spruce Pine.

Associations:
The American Chiropractic Association
International Chiropractors Association
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association
N.C. Chiropractic Association
International Academy of Chiropractic Occupational Health Consultants
Chiropractic Rehabilitation Association