Picking out a Treatment Table for Your Massage Therapy Business

Saturday, February 19, 2011

By Sven Thorsenn


If you've been looking into buying a massage table, you have likely discovered the fact that there are plenty of options available. They can be portable or stationary, they can vary in size and they can also be manufactured from different materials. Imagining yourself working on a table before you buy is important if you are a massage therapist to be certain the table meets your needs.

Massage is becoming pretty trendy, and having a fitting table can make the experience that much more pleasant and medicinal.

Most massage tables have metal or wood frames. When buying a table, this is probably the simplest decision you will have to make. Due to the nature of most massage practices, wooden frames are generally preferred by therapists and clients alike because of the more natural look. Of course, there are many types and qualities of wood, and you should check what kind is used if this is the type of table you want. A good choice, that's sturdy but also quite light, is maple. There are also some really good aluminum massage tables but be careful because not all of them are good with some of the cheaper ones being poorly constructed meaning that they won't last all that long. Another strong but lightweight material that is sometimes used is carbon fiber.

First off, you need to establish a budget and the type of table to buy, which will depend on how much you intend to use it. Some people will purchase a massage table to keep at home because they like being massaged or giving massages sometimes. If you are buying a table for simple home use, since you won't be using it too often, you don't need to go for the fanciest and most expensive table. On the other hand, you will want to invest in a quality unit that will last you for quite a few years if you are a massage therapist. You also want to present a professional appearance to your clients, besides owning a robust massage table. How often you will be using the massage table will dictate the quality you need.

Your clients comfort is another consideration you need to make. It doesn't matter how skilled you are, if your table is uncomfortable your client isn't likely to return if they don't enjoy the session. The main factor to consider in comfort is the thickness of the foam on the table. If it's not dense enough, it won't provide much cushioning when people lie down on it. So look for a high density foam that holds its shape. It's also important to consider a good quality vinyl cover. While thicker foam will definitely make the table more comfortable, you also have to keep in mind that this adds to the weight of the table, so you have to strike a balance.

If you require a quality massage table but don't have a large budget you might be able to locate a decent second-hand table by visiting online discussion boards connected to massage. Inquire if anyone has a table still in good condition that they're planning to get rid of. Moving, upgrading their practice or changing their occupation are all reasons a massage therapist might want to sell their table. Another place you could check with is a local spa, which may replace equipment frequently even if it's still in perfectly usable condition. In both these cases, you'd be getting a professional massage table that you'd otherwise have to pay a lot more to obtain.

Not all massage tables are suited for all types of massage and bodywork, with some being more appropriate than others. One way of looking at it is that therapists who engage in Swedish massage, Shiatsu and Reiki will use various techniques that will have an impact on their table preference. Since working from a seated position is typical during Reiki sessions, a Reiki specific table will feature end plates, giving the therapist legroom. Whatever type of massage you practice, make sure the table is wide enough so that client's of varying sizes can lie comfortably on them. Remember, though, that you will have to reach further on a wider table.

An important element of a massage table is the face cradle, as it plays a vital role in the table's comfort. Your client's face will be resting on this area during their massage and it can have a significant impact on the level of relaxation he or she will experience during the session and will directly impact the effectiveness of the session. You need to find a face cradle that is well suited to your massage table. Aluminum and plastic are most commonly used to make face cradles, but they can also be made of wood or memory foam. You have the option of getting a face cradle that will allow you to adjust it for your clients or one that is stationary. You need to be especially attentive when getting this accessory because, when people are receiving a massage, the position their neck and face are in are essential.

In a nutshell, when you hunt around for massage tables it is imperative for you to ponder over more than just the cost and facade. You need to locate one that is proper for your own wishes or practice. As an illustration, you wouldn't want to pick up a stationary table, and then wish you had gotten a portable one so you are capable of making house calls. That's the reason you should record all of your musts and the attributes you yearn for prior to making a decision on one.

Generally, when shopping for massage tables, you need something that you will be able to use for a long time. You also need something that's good for both you and your clients.




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