Barry University Shapes Luis Cruz’s Path to Innovation in Occupational Therapy

Oct 03, 2024

Luis Cruz’s career as an Occupational Therapist (OT) exemplifies perseverance, innovation, and dedication! Born in Cuba, he earned a degree in Physical Education, specializing in sports injuries and rehabilitation, from the Higher Institute of Physical Education in Camagüey. After moving to the U.S., Luis graduated from Keiser University as an Occupational Therapy Assistant in 2013 and later earned a Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Barry University in 2020.

With over seven years of experience, Luis has worked in a range of OT specialties, including neurotraumas, spinal cord injuries, upper extremity orthopedic conditions, sports injuries, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. His work has spanned hospital acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient orthopedic care, and low-vision rehab.

Luis credits his success to Barry University’s OT program, stating: “It changed my approach in many ways: the structured program, professional faculty, and well-planned schedules, which allowed me to balance work, family, and school.” This balance of theory and practice helped Luis develop his skills and excel in various clinical environments.

One of Luis’s proudest achievements is his STM Flex n Xtend Gloves, patented in 2015, which assist patients with hand injuries by enabling the flexion and extension of finger joints. When asked about his inspiration, Luis said: “I saw patients seeking relief from pain and limited motion. I knew I needed to create something non-invasive that could help stretch and decompress finger joints, ultimately reducing pain and improving functionality.” Since introducing the gloves, Luis has seen significant improvements in patient recovery, including better grip strength and enhanced daily activities.

Luis encourages aspiring OTs, particularly those interested in hand therapy, to focus on their training: “Pay close attention to the instructors and choose ortho and hand rehab for your fieldwork to gain hands-on experience.”

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