Last week was an exciting week for Justin Longhurst, DPT, ATC of Allied Physical Therapy. He spent the week in New York assisting the Chinese Aerial Skiing National Team. The team was in New York training for World Cup and World Championship competitions held this winter. Team China is historically one of the top aerial ski teams in the world and includes Olympic medalists.
Longhurst previously worked in Utah with the Australian Winter Olympic Team for multiple disciplines including aerial skiing and speed skating. Having this experience, he was invited to work with the Chinese team. He worked side by side with their medical staff, including a physician, physical therapists, and strength and conditioning coaches.
“It was a great experience to see the similarities and differences in treatment methods and to collaborate with the Chinese staff, working together treating a variety of injuries.” Longhurst said. “I learned more about exercise progressions with top end athletes. In return, I introduced different manual therapy techniques to them.”
The time spent with the team was busy with training with the athletes at the jump site, treatment of the athletes, and assisting the strength and conditioning coach. Longhurst enjoyed getting to know the athletes and learning about their culture, including celebrating February birthdays with Chinese customs. “They are such kind, warm people and very friendly.”
Allied Physical Therapy, located on Middle Street in Farmington and on Main Street in Kingfield, is accepting new patients. This includes sports medicine, post surgical rehabilitation, and work related injuries. For more information or appointments, call 778-6469.
