How to choose a massage table. Choosing a massage table: each according to needs Uses a massage table as a place

Clients are always delighted with the massage, but almost none of them comes to mind what difficulties these procedures are associated with. This work is rather monotonous, tiring and requires great endurance and painstaking attitude even from professional craftsmen.

The main tools of the massage therapist are his hands and, of course,. Adjustment of the latter is very important for improving the performance and maintaining the health of a specialist. Therefore, you should be careful about the organization of the workplace and follow some rules related to its ergonomics.

The most important parameter of the table, when conducting a massage, is its height. The conducted studies and many years of practice have shown that the optimal values ​​are 60 ... 90 cm.

"Correct Height"

Limits are limits. But, as many, we think, immediately guessed, the height that is convenient for the massage therapist will be “correct”. And, interestingly, it depends not on his height, but on the length of his arms.

Experimentally, it is determined simply. The specialist should approach the table, hang his hands freely and clench his fingers into a fist. Ideally, the table surface will touch the fist. This is the “correct” height for this massage therapist.

However, not everything is so elementary. It turns out that here you need to take into account the physique of the patient. Its “solid” state requires more intensive movements from the massage therapist, which is more convenient and productive with a low table.

In a word, each specialist knows the intricacies of his profession, his own complexion, and therefore equips the workplace according to his own laws, known only to him. Of course, taking into account the rules developed by his numerous predecessors.

Both devices among professionals are considered ideal tools for massage. The difference is in the design solutions. "Master" is made of precious wood, "Sakura" has a frame of high-strength steel pipes. From the point of view of ergonomics and reliability, they are impeccable. But the systems and ranges for adjusting their height are different.

In "Sakura" the interval is 59...84 cm and provides a practically comprehensive tincture for any particular person and any conditions. To adjust the height of the table, the legs are extended, after which their position is fixed with screw buttons. The presence of two buttons on each leg increases the reliability of the connection.

The table of the “Master” model has a range in which the height is adjustable, 62 ... 88 cm. They say that it is one of the most popular. The change mechanism is made in the form of a telescopic system, which is more practical and also speeds up the installation of the desired position.

When using a table, it is better to immediately develop the right habits, including setting its height. Subsequently, all this will affect your performance and, of course, the effectiveness of any procedures.

It is generally recognized that classical massage, referred to throughout the world as Russian, is one of the most natural, natural and effective means of training athletes, improving health, preventing and treating various diseases, as well as improving the aesthetics of the human body. At the same time, we must not forget that performing Russian massage for a whole working day or shift, the duration of which when working with athletes can reach 12-15 hours a day, is tiring, even for trained experienced specialists, hard physical labor, the organization of which requires full and comprehensive scientific justification. However, despite such an obvious relevance of this problem, until recently, the range of issues related to improving the efficiency and preventive prevention of professionally caused diseases of massage therapists was not studied at the proper level, and therefore, there were no scientifically based and clearly formulated recommendations for rational organization of work of specialists of this profile. As our analysis of domestic and foreign textbooks and manuals on classical massage revealed, in most cases, the statements of the authors on this issue are unsubstantiated subjective-empirical, often mutually exclusive, and moreover, often completely contradict modern views of biomechanics, requirements occupational health and ergonomics. This state of affairs, completely unacceptable for scientific and educational discipline, prompted us to undertake our own comprehensive research, the purpose of which is to develop, justify and introduce into the pedagogical process and the practical sphere of massage, extremely accurate, effective and accessible for the implementation of recommendations for maintaining health and improving efficiency. massage therapists.

Of decisive importance for the ergonomics of the massage therapist's workplace is optimally adjusted, which is the main element in equipping Russian massage rooms. The correctness of adjusting its size largely determines the working conditions of the massage therapist, i.e. his working posture will be ergonomically rational and functionally comfortable, or vice versa - forced, leading to rapid fatigue. Our critical analysis of a large number of textbooks and manuals on classical massage - at present, a whole spectrum coexists at the same time, including diametrically opposed opinions about the optimal height of the massage table. The authors' recommendations on this issue have fairly wide limits: from 50 (or at the level of the knee joints) to 90 cm (Table 1), while most publications indicate only a certain range of possible sizes (50-70 or 70-90 cm) , without any further explanation. Methods for adjusting the height of the table, taking into account the height and length of the massage therapist's hands, are extremely rare, and they often contradict the principles and standards of ergonomics and occupational health.

As can be clearly seen from Fig. 1, in relation to the anthropometric dimensions of the human body, the range of 40 centimeters is a significant value, suggesting working poses that are completely different in design, some of which even according to formal features (Gorshkov S.I., 1979; Strelkov Yu.K., 2003) can classified as forced, inconvenient. And finally, there is the Industry Safety Standard for Departments and Physiotherapy Rooms - OST 42-21-16-86 SSBT, which unambiguously determines that the height of the massage table should be 80 cm, length 1.95-2.00 m, width 0.65 see, the ergonomic justification of which, in the available literature, we could not find.
In the process of research conducted at the Russian State University of Physical Culture, Sports and Tourism (Moscow), we studied 4 variants of the working posture "standing", which were modeled by adjusting the height of the massage table in accordance with the individual anthropometric data of each of the subjects:

Rice. 2. Working postures modeled during the study (explanations in the text).

Working Pose 1 (RP-1) - a table at the level of the knee joints (Fig. 2-a);
- Working Pose 2 (RP-2) - a table at the level of the finger point, i.e. the arm is freely lowered, the fingers are fully extended and touch the table bed (Fig. 2-b);
- Working Pose 3 (RP-3) - a table at the level of the phalangeal point, i.e. the hand is freely lowered, the fingers are clenched into a fist and touch the back of the bed of the table (Fig. 2-c);
- Working Pose 4 (RP-4) - a table at the level of the styloid process of the radius (Fig. 2-d).
Thus, we have evenly covered the entire range of recommendations on the size of the massage table. As a standard workload, the subjects performed a 45-minute session of general hygienic massage according to the A.A. Biryukova (2006). With the help of the multifunctional computer electrophysiological complex "I-330-C2+" (J+J Engineering, USA), the following were recorded: heart rate (HR), depth and frequency of respiration, bioelectrical activity of the muscles directly involved in maintaining working postures (sacrospinous , gluteus maximus, biceps femoris, gastrocnemius, trapezius, deltoid, biceps brachii). At the same time, goniometric, photogoniometric measurements, psychophysiological testing and questionnaire survey of the subjects, as well as pedagogical observation were carried out. In total (to date), more than 150 subjects from the number of students and trainees of massage courses at RGUFKSiT have taken part in the studies, which allows us to reasonably assert the statistical reliability of the data obtained.

Rice. 3. Optimal working posture (perpendicular starting position).
The results of our study convincingly proved that from the point of view of physiology, biomechanics and ergonomics, the most rational options for performing Russian classical massage were the work of a specialist in RP-2 (table height at the level of the finger point) and RP-3 (table height at the level of the phalangeal dots), in which the torso inclination did not exceed 15–20° (Fig. 3). A comparative analysis showed that the bioelectrical activity of the muscles in RP-2,-3 had the least differences from the data recorded in a calm, comfortable standing position (Fig. 4).

Rice. 4. The amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of some skeletal muscles during work in the optimal posture and in a comfortable “standing” position.

It is fundamentally important that during the entire 45-minute session, the amplitude and frequency spectrum of electromyographic signals did not change significantly, which indicated (Moikin Yu.V. et al., 1987; Rozhentsov V.V., Polevshchikov M.M., 2006 ) about the absence of even primary signs of neuromuscular fatigue, that is, about a relatively low load on the skeletal muscles that fix these postures.
In RP-2,-3, working hyperventilation was carried out mainly due to an increase in the depth of breathing by 210±24% (compared to rest) and a slight increase in the respiratory rate by 2-4 cycles/min, i.e. according to the most advantageous variant of mobilization of external respiration reserves during cyclic physical work (Fig. 5).

Rice. 5. Pneumogram (graphic registration of amplitude and frequency parameters of chest movement, reflecting the dynamics of respiratory movements) during massaging in the optimal working position.

Breathing was rhythmic. A joint analysis of pneumo- and electromyograms showed that in these working postures, the respiratory act was organically inscribed “into the fabric” of the movements performed by the hands, making up a single ensemble with it - a dynamic stereotype.
With the beginning of massaging, the heart rate increased compared to the pre-working state (68±6 beats/min) by 70.5% (up to 116±11 beats/min) and remained within these limits until the end of the session.
According to the questionnaire survey, RP-2,-3 were characterized by the subjects not only as somatically (bodily) comfortable, but also as the most convenient for performing massage techniques. Photogoniometric measurements have shown that the subjective convenience of performing techniques noted by massage therapists has a well-defined biomechanical foundation.
Firstly, in these working postures, a biomechanically advantageous spatial arrangement of the body of a specialist, the links of his arms and the massaged area was created relative to each other. Shoulder-forearm-masseur's hand and massaged area were arranged in descending order. On average, the angle of flexion in the shoulder joint (counting in accordance with the international methodology - SFTR) was 20-25°, abduction of the shoulder from the body did not exceed 15-20°, flexion at the elbow 20-30° (Fig. 6).

Rice. 6. Mutual arrangement of the links of the biokinematic chain of the body-shoulder-forearm-masseur's hand in the optimal working position.

As the results of electromyography showed, such a mutual position required the optimal expenditure of muscle energy to keep the hands in the working position and made it possible to fully relax the muscles that are not involved in the performance of the entire technique or its individual phases (Fig. 7).

Rice. 7. Electromyograms when the massage therapist performs “double ring kneading”: t is the period of performing one pass of “double ring kneading”. The main working movement "move the arm forward" is performed due to the activity of the triceps m. of the shoulder. The activity of the biceps of the shoulder is only required to return the arm to its original position.

To put it in terms from the physiology of labor, the working muscles had micropauses of rest, which significantly delayed the onset of their local fatigue.
Secondly, at the optimal height of the table, the massage therapist's hand, which is in contact with the patient's body, occupies the most advantageous position in relation to the forearm. Normally, flexion of the fingers is accompanied by simultaneous extension in the wrist joint, within 20-30° (Fig. 8).

Rice. 8. Stabilization of the wrist with the movement of the fingers. From the point of view of biomechanics, this synkinesis is largely due to the need to compensate for the passive insufficiency of the extensor fingers (Mateev I.B., Banks S.D., 1981).

Such synkinesis is deeply fixed in the human central nervous system, and is biologically expedient, since it directs the plane of the palm against the object to be grasped. The strength of the hand grips reaches its maximum values ​​in the case when the extension angle in the wrist joint is 30-40°. If the hand is in a neutral position or, which is much worse, in a flexed position, then the mobility of the fingers in the interphalangeal joints deteriorates significantly, and the effective area and strength of most types of grips also decrease (Aruin A.S., Zatsiorsky V.M., 1989 ; Mateev I.B., Bankov S.D., 1981). It is on this biomechanical regularity that most of the methods of disarming the enemy in various martial arts are based. In addition, as studies by A.S. Aruin and V.M. Zatsiorsky (1989), G.N. Mazunina and others (1967), Yu.V. Moikina et al. (1987), with prolonged work with excessive flexion or extension of the hand, the risk of developing professionally conditioned pathological processes in various anatomical structures of the hand and forearm increases sharply: soft tissues, articular surfaces, ligaments and tendons.
The essence of performing ordinary, double ordinary, double ring kneading, double neck - the most technically complex types of Russian massage techniques and at the same time occupying from 60 to 80% of the total session time, consists in grabbing with the hands, lifting from the bone bed, squeezing and stretching / torsion of the muscle tissue of the massaged area of ​​the patient's body.

Therefore, with very minor reservations, we can assume that the implementation of the above types of kneading is nothing more than a multiple cyclic repetition of various variations of the palmar (open) grip of the hand (Fig. 9) with a compression force of the massaged tissue of about 4-5 kg ​​(Eremushkin M .A., 2004).

Rice. 9. Palmar (open) grip of the hand.

According to goniometric and photogoniometric measurements, when performing the above types of kneading in RP-2,-3, extension in the wrist joint, on average, was 15-30° (Fig. 10), that is, it was the most biomechanically beneficial, which in many respects and predetermined subjective convenience and good technique for performing most of the techniques.

Rice. 10. Biomechanically advantageous mutual position of the biokinematic pair of forearm-hand when performing types of kneading.

Rice. 11. General view of the working posture - 4, the table at the level of the styloid process of the radius.
When modeling RP-4 (Fig. 11) (massage table at the level of the styloid process of the radius), the position of the body of the subjects was almost vertical (inclination less than 10°), however, the arms were constantly in a forcedly elevated position.

Rice. 12. Forced raised position of the arms in the working position - 4: a - the position of the biokinematic pair of shoulder-forearm in relation to the body; b - the mutual position of the biokinematic pair of forearm-hand when performing types of kneading.

The angle of flexion in the shoulder joint (Fig. 12, a) exceeded 50°, and the abduction of the shoulder from the body was 25-30°, which, compared with RP-2,-3, not only increased the amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of the trapezius muscle by more than 5 times , the deltoid muscle by 4-6 times and the biceps of the shoulder by 2 times, but also increased the activity of the sacrospinous muscle by 82±12% and the biceps femoris by 90±8% (Fig. 13).

Rice. 13. The amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of some skeletal muscles when working in the optimal position and working position - 4.

Holding the hands in an elevated position limited the excursion of the chest, making it difficult for the massage therapist to operate the external respiration apparatus. The depth of breathing was 42% less, and the frequency was 26% higher than those in RP-2,-3, i.e. breathing was superficial and rapid (Fig. 14).

Rice. Fig. 14. Pneumogram during double circular kneading: a - in the optimal working position, b - in the working position - 4 with arms raised high.

This fact also has a very specific physiological and biomechanical explanation. Gas exchange in the body is carried out due to rhythmic respiratory movements by changing inhalation (inspiration) and exhalation (expiration). At rest and during light work, respiratory movements are provided by the respiratory muscles themselves. In this case, the greatest activity is noted during inhalation in the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, and exhalation is carried out more passively, due to the elastic forces that arise when the chest and lungs expand during inhalation. With significant physical exertion, auxiliary respiratory muscles come into play - on inspiration, trapezius and rhomboid, large and small pectoral, sternocleidomastoid, extensors of the back and some others, and on exhalation, the abdominal muscles. At the same time, it should be taken into account that in RP-4, most of the listed muscles developed significant static activity to keep the arms in a raised position, and some also performed dynamic work when performing techniques. Thus, a double and even triple load on these muscles became a very significant factor that limited ventilation of the lungs.
Increased muscle activity and functional tension of the external respiration apparatus naturally affected the activity of the cardiovascular system. In RP-4, the heart rate was 35.3% higher than in RP-2,-3, which in absolute terms was 140±11 beats/min.

Rice. 15. Zones of localization of discomfort sensations (shaded with a grid) during massaging in a working position - 4 (according to a questionnaire survey conducted directly during a 45-minute test massage session).

Subjectively, the subjects assessed this working posture as tedious (Fig. 15) and uncomfortable for performing most types of techniques, first of all, various types of kneading, which was also most directly related to the biomechanical patterns we discussed above.
Firstly, holding the arms in a constantly elevated position did not allow the large muscles of the arms: the biceps and triceps of the shoulder to fully relax in micropauses, which is quite contrastingly seen when comparing electromyograms recorded in RP-2 (Fig. 7, a) and RP- 4 (Fig. 7b).
Secondly, photogoniometric measurements revealed that when performing various types of kneading in RP-4, the hand was in a neutral or even slightly bent position by 5-10° in relation to the forearm (Fig. 12), which worsened the mobility of the finger joints and power distal muscles.

Rice. 16. General view of the working posture - 1, a table at the level of the massage therapist's knee joints.

The most irrational of all the simulated working positions was RP-1 (table height at the level of the knee joints), in which the torso inclination reached 30°-45° (Fig. 16), which was 2-3 times higher than the ergonomic norm of 15°, maximum permissible GOST 12.2.033-78 "Workplace when performing work while standing."
Practice shows that the correct understanding of the essence of this ergonomic norm by massage therapists is an extremely important condition for adequate self-control during work and modeling the most comfortable and safe working conditions, so we will consider this issue in more detail.
With relatively small inclinations of the trunk and head, a certain part of the load on the spine is compensated by increasing the tension of the muscles of the back (mainly the rectifiers of the trunk) and the abdomen (the rectus abdominis and its synergists) (Fig. 17).

Rice. 17. Vertebral motor segment of a vertically standing person, like a lever of the first kind (balance lever) with unequal shoulders. The fulcrum of the lever is the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc, and the balance of the system is achieved due to the activity and elastic-viscous properties of the skeletal muscles of the back and abdomen: 1 - iliopsoas m., 2 - m. rectifier of the spine, 3 - square m. of the lower back, 4 - straight m. of the abdomen, 5 - oblique m. of the abdomen.

In this case, the stability and stability of the spine is provided not only with the help of intervertebral discs, joints and a rather powerful ligamentous apparatus, but also due to the activity of skeletal muscles. According to the well-known domestic specialist in the field of vertebrology, physical rehabilitation and therapeutic physical culture, Professor V.A. Epifanova (2004): “The muscles of the trunk are not only a motor, but also a structural element, without which the strength of the spine differs little from zero.” However, the biomechanics of the human body is such that when the depth of the torso is more than 15-20° from the vertical, these skeletal muscles cease to provide active support to the passive structures of the spine (Fig. 18).

Rice. 18. Compression (in Kg) carried by the lumbar intervertebral discs, depending on the person's posture (according to P. Slynchev et al., 1978).

In this situation, the main part of the load is redistributed to the intervertebral discs and joints, and their ligamentous apparatus, which are not functionally intended for long-term performance of such a support function. Over time, such a mechanical effect can cause tissue overstrain syndrome, which manifests itself in compensatory compaction, adhesion, fibrosis of the cartilaginous and ligamentous structures of the spine. First of all, intervertebral discs suffer, which lose their elastic and shock-absorbing properties, microdamages accumulate in them, conditions are created for deformation and subsequent violation of their integrity. At the same time, it should be taken into account that the “switching off” the muscles of the back and abdomen from the process of stabilizing the posture concerns only their support of the spine and does not lead to a decrease in the load on the skeletal muscles themselves. On the contrary, with torso inclinations exceeding 15-20 °, the load on the muscular apparatus increases dramatically (Aruin A.S., Zatsiorsky V.M., 1988; Epifanov V.A., 2004; Gorshkov S.I., 1979; Levit K. et al., 1993), which was also confirmed by our own research.

Rice. 19. The amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of some skeletal muscles when working in the optimal posture and working posture - 1.

Analysis of electromyograms showed (Fig. 19) that the amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of the muscles of the back and legs was already initially higher than in RP-2,-3 (sacrospinous by 4-4.5 times, gluteus maximus by 1.5 times, biceps femur by 2-2.5 times, gastrocnemius by 1.2 times), and its dynamics is typical for the electromyographic picture of pronounced deep fatigue during static efforts (Fig. 20).

Rice. 20. Electromyographic picture of pronounced deep muscle fatigue with static efforts during massaging in working position - 1 and its transformation with the development of muscle fatigue. Subject K., male, 26 years old, experience as a massage therapist for 3 years.

Continuing during the first 30 minutes of massaging, a continuous increase in the amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of the sacrospinous muscle (the "compensated fatigue" phase), then gave way to its sharp decrease in the last third of the session (the "decompensated fatigue" phase). In parallel with this, there was an increase in the activity of the gluteus maximus muscle and the biceps femoris, which initially performed an auxiliary role in maintaining the inclined position of the body and gradually assumed the main load. Visually, this process manifested itself as a transformation of the posture. In the beginning, despite the deep slope, the contour of the back was quite even, and the legs were slightly bent at the knees and hips. With the development of muscle fatigue, i.e. as the activity of the sacrospinous muscle decreased, the contour of the back became more and more rounded, and the legs almost completely extended. In addition, as fatigue of the muscles of the back and legs increased, the subjects often stabilized the balance of their body by relying on one of the arms or knee, involuntarily trying to reduce the load on the muscles, at least for a while. Significant tension in the muscles responsible for maintaining the working posture was subjectively assessed by the subjects as a feeling of fatigue, numbness, aching, burning, and pain in the lumbar region, buttocks, and thighs (Fig. 21).

Rice. 21. Zones of localization of uncomfortable sensations (shaded with a grid) when massaging in a working position - 1.

Increased muscle activity forced the cardiovascular system to function more intensely than in RP-2,-3. The heart rate already at the 1st minute of massaging was 156±4 beats/min (+58.9%), and by 30-45 minutes it increased to 168±4 beats/min (+76.5%). The bent position of the body hampered the activity of the external respiration apparatus. The pneumogram showed that in RP-1 the breathing of the subjects was not only superficial and rapid (the depth of breathing is less by 52%, the respiratory rate is 42% higher than the similar indicators of RP-2, -3), but also non-rhythmic, with delays of 4- 6 seconds (Fig. 22).

Rice. Fig. 22. Pneumogram during double circular kneading in the working position - 1. Small fluctuations in the signal amplitude in the area indicated in the figure as "breath-holding" are due to the rhythmic contraction of the muscles of the chest and back during the performance of techniques, which was recorded by the equipment as a change in the size of the chest.

However, unlike RP-4, the main role in the difficulty of the activity of the external respiration apparatus was played not by the forced position of the arms, but by excessive flexion of the body, which led to limited mobility of the ribs and mechanical pressure on the diaphragm of the abdominal organs.
Along with the above, it must be taken into account that the bent position of the body also leads to compression of the abdominal cavity and pelvis, as well as to difficulty in blood circulation in the portal vein (v. portae). According to L.K. Arzhelas (1927) - according to our data, probably the only domestic specialist who studied the problem of professional morbidity of masseurs, prolonged exposure to the body of these two factors can cause the development of congestion, varicose veins, constipation, hemorrhoids, weakening of the pelvic floor muscles, and in women - various gynecological pathologies.
Thus, based on the generalization and analysis of the data obtained, we recommend the following method for determining the optimal (i.e., the most suitable for this particular person) height of the massage table: the specialist needs to stand close to its edge, the feet and knees of fully extended legs should touch each other. friend, keep the torso straight, expand the shoulders, freely lower the arms down (Fig. 23).

Rice. 23. Determination of the optimal height of the massage table in accordance with the individual anthropometric data of the massage therapist.

The height of the table is within the optimal limits if its surface is located within the range limited by the following anthropometric points (landmarks): from below - the finger point (the tip of the nail phalanx of the 3rd finger), from above - the phalangeal point (the back of the middle phalanxes of fingers clenched into a fist) .
In accordance with the most current data on static and dynamic anthropometric features of the human body of residents of the European part of Russia (Strelkov Yu.K., 2003; Strokina A.N., Pakhomova V.A., 1999), as well as the results of our own anthropometric measurements (Fig. 1), the average height of men is 175 cm (the height of the finger point above the floor is 66 cm, the phalanx is 77 cm), and women is 163 cm (the height of the finger point above the floor is 63 cm, the phalanx is 73 cm ). Based on this information, manufacturers of specialized furniture for massage rooms focused on the Russian market should produce massage tables, the height of which is adjustable in the range of at least 60-80 cm. Subject to this condition, more than 90% of massage therapists (men and women) will receive opportunity to work in optimal conditions.
We would like to draw special attention of all competent specialists to the need to make ergonomically justified adjustments to the Industry standard for organizing massage in medical institutions OST 42-21-16-86 SSBT, since the table height of 80 cm indicated in it is too high, not only more than for 95% of women (80 cm approximately corresponds to the level of the styloid process of the radius), but is also the upper limit of the optimal range for men.
For more accurate table height adjustment, it is advisable to be guided by the following criteria.

Rice. Fig. 24. Options for adjusting the height of the table depending on the transverse-sagittal dimensions of the massaged body: a - the table at the level of the finger point (the lower limit of the optimal range); b - table at the level of the phalangeal point (upper limit of the optimal range).

In the case when it is necessary to perform techniques with a high intensity (i.e. depth) of impact on tissues: massaging a person with developed muscles or significant fat deposits (Fig. 24, a), it is recommended to adjust the height of the table at the level of the finger point. The surface of the massaged area will be located slightly below the general center of gravity of the massage therapist's body, which allows you to increase the intensity of the impact not only by increasing muscle effort, but also due to the effective use of weight and inertia of the movement of the body. It is important that in this case the specialist does not lose balance (ie does not fall on the patient) and can accurately control the applied efforts and the intensity of the impact.

Rice. 25. When massaging a child whose body size is much smaller than the body size of an adult, the height of the table should be at the level of the phalangeal point (the upper limit of the optimal range).

If during the session it is not supposed to perform techniques with great strength and intensity: some private massage techniques for diseases, massage of a child (Fig. 25), or the transverse-sagittal dimensions of the patient's body are small (Fig. 24, b), then it is more expedient to choose a height table at the level of the phalangeal point so that the tilt of the torso is minimal.
Another important ergonomic parameter of the massage table is its width. The table should be wide enough (spacious) for a comfortable, absolutely relaxed position of the patient on it, but at the same time, it must be taken into account that the excessive width of the bed forces the massage therapist to work with a deep inclination of the torso and outstretched arms, in fact, nullifying all efforts to optimize the working posture due to precise adjustment of the table height (Fig. 26).

Rice. 26. Despite the finely adjusted height of the table, its excessively wide bed forces the massage therapist to work in an uncomfortable working position.

Equipment manufacturers are trying to find a compromise between these two requirements, giving the surface of the bed of the table a complex concave shape or supplying transformable, removable palm rests, armrests.
Based on the results of our own research, practical experience, as well as anthropometric data of Russian residents (Strelkov Yu.K., 2003; Strokina A.N., Pakhomova V.A., 1999), we recommend a table width of 55-65 cm .
We hope that the results of our research will be useful for a wide range of people whose profession is related to massage: teachers of educational institutions and courses, practicing massage therapists, and of course for those who have just begun to study it. In addition, we believe that the data presented in this publication is of interest to the heads of various institutions and organizations (medical, health, sports, SPA industry and beauty salons) that provide massage services, as well as to manufacturers of massage equipment and furniture. .

Table number 1.

1. Latoguz S.I., 2001, 2007 The height of the massage table should be 5 cm above the massage therapist's knee joint (about 50 cm)
2. Pogosyan M.M., 2002 50-70 cm
3. Vasichkin V.I., 1991, 1993 50-70 cm
4. Kondrashev A.V., Khodarev S.V., Kharlamov E.V., 2005 50-70 cm
5. Fokin V.N., 2002 60-80 cm
6. Efimenko P.B., 2001 Standing "quietly", hands at the seams, the ends of straightened fingers should touch the surface of the table (about 66 cm)
7. Makarov V.A., 1975 70 cm
8. Sarkizov-Serazini I.M., 1963 70 cm
9. Tyurin A.M., Vasichkin V.I., 1986 70 cm
10. Leontiev A.V., 2004 In a standing position, arms are straightened and lowered down, the massage therapist should touch the surface of the table with the middle phalanges of the fingers (about 70 cm)
11. Kramarenko V.K., 1953 70-75cm
12. Dunaev I.V., 2000 In a standing position, arms are straightened and lowered down, fingers gathered into a fist should touch the surface of the table with the back of the main phalanges (about 75-77 cm)
13. Kunichev L.A., 1984 70-75 cm,
14. Zabludovsky I.Z., 1903 77 cm
15. Dalikho V.A., Hase H., Krauss G., Reichert H., Schumann N.L., 1983 75-80 cm, the height must be stable for stability reasons
16. Belaya N.A., 2001 80 cm
17. Verbov A.F., 1966 80 cm
18. OST 42-21-16-86 SSBT 80 cm
19. Shterengerts A.E., Belaya N.A., 1992 70-90 cm
20. Dubrovsky V.I., 2001 70-90 cm

How long has the art of massage been around? Probably, back in the Stone Age, some healer in a fox skin (earned!) Kneaded the backs of his fellow tribesmen. Have you also mastered the basic manipulations and even got the crusts of a massage therapist? It's time to go to the next level, earn money! True, patients of the twenty-first century want to receive procedures in comfortable conditions. It’s too early for a beginner to buy expensive equipment, but to make a massage table with your own hands is just right. It is better if it is foldable: most of the afflicted will have to go home.

We offer instructions for the manufacture of such a massage table

  • The main requirement for a massage table is that a person of any build should easily sit on it. The massage therapist also needs free “access to the body” so that the corners of the structure do not rest against his stomach during work.
  • The massage table must be strong and withstand a minimum load of up to 250 kg. Specialists know what efforts must be made for the effectiveness of treatment - a weak design will not withstand a couple of sessions. By the way, the safety of the patient should also be taken into account. The frame of the table is usually made of lightweight metal or hardwood. The average weight of the product is about 15-20 kg.
  • The bed should be ergonomic. If the patient is in an uncomfortable position, tense, then the procedures will not be of much use. Women still often, instead of relaxing, think about how not to ruin their makeup. Therefore, a cutout for the face in this situation is not a whim, but an urgent need.
  • The quality of the filler is of great importance. The best option in our case would be to use foam rubber or high density polyurethane. Mixed filler gives good results.

Organizational stage of work

The model you see in the picture seems complicated at first glance. In fact, the design is simple, reliable, moreover, it folds easily and fits into the trunk of a car.

Materials for making a massage table

  • Sanded plywood with dimensions 9x600x900 mm - 2 sheets.
  • Beam for legs 20x50 mm - 18 linear meters.
  • Foam rubber 50x600x900 mm - 2 sheets.
  • Beautiful artificial leather 1100x2100 mm.
  • Piano loops 18x50 mm - 14 pcs.
  • Screws 15 mm long.
  • Self-tapping screws 20, 35, 45 mm long.
  • PVA glue.
  • Sandpaper.
  • Handle, clasp.

A set of tools for work

  • Circular saw with an inclined disk.
  • Hacksaw.
  • Drill with a set of drills.
  • Screwdriver.
  • Hammer, chisel.
  • Fine-toothed carpenter's saw.
  • Electric jigsaw.
  • Mechanical stapler and staples to it.
  • Paper cutter.
  • Roulette, ruler, square, pencil.

Instructions for making a massage table

Massage table top assembly

The task of how to make a massage table with our own hands, we will begin to solve with the manufacture of countertops. We mark segments with dimensions of 600x900 mm on two pieces of plywood. We cut the blanks with an electric jigsaw. We clean the ends with an emery cloth wrapped around a wooden block of a suitable shape. If you have a grinder, even better.

On one of the blanks, we draw and cut out an oval hole for the face, 180x110 mm in size. Curves can be removed using a plate, a saucepan lid - which is suitable for the radius.

Drawings of the two halves of the countertop

Next comes the frame for the countertop. We cut out four pieces of 900 mm long from a 20x50 mm beam, and four - 560 mm each. We connect the blanks on self-tapping screws 45 mm long so that we get two frames with dimensions of 600 by 900 mm along the outer edge. Holes for fasteners with a depth of 2-3 mm should be drilled in advance, otherwise the beam under the screws may crack. Having assembled the frames, we fasten the covers to them using nails or self-tapping screws 20 mm long.

Upholstery of table top halves

Now we will think about how to make the massage table comfortable for the patient. Although the Japanese say that a bed made of pure gold will not help the patient, this proverb is unfair in relation to our product. So, we apply a layer of glue on the countertop, lay two sheets of foam rubber on top. We wait until the glue dries, cut off the excess foam rubber along the edges. Carefully cut out an oval for the face.

Table upholstery

Now we put artificial leather on the foam rubber. Stretching the material, we wrap the edges behind the frame. We shoot with a stapler to the bar, first to the long sides, then to the short ones, observing a step of 10 mm. After that, we form the corners, trying to do without noticeable folds. On one of the short sides we leave room for loops.

Making table legs

From a bar 20x50 mm, according to the drawings, we cut two sets of blanks, six bars each.

We assemble the first two supports (parts A). To do this, we fasten three parts with an overlap using self-tapping screws. We cut off the lower ends of long blanks at an angle of 41 degrees. If it is not possible to withstand such accuracy, we cut it down to a more obtuse angle, so long as the cut on all four legs is the same. Here, when deciding how to make a massage table yourself without outside help, you can use a jigsaw with an inclined sole or a circular saw with an inclined disk.

Drawing and photograph of part A of the support

We connect the next two supports (part B) in half a tree by selecting grooves with a saw and a chisel. We cut their upper ends at an angle of 30 degrees.

Drawing and photograph of part B of the support

We assemble supports A with supports B on the piano hinges, fixing them with self-tapping screws. We should get two identical sets of legs. We immediately check them for folding - no distortions are allowed.

We assemble supports A with supports B

Massage table assembly

On the inside of the frames, mark out lines for four piano loops. We fasten the hinges with self-tapping screws, connecting the supports and frames of the tabletops. First, we screw the fastener into the middle hole, check if there are any distortions when folding the legs. If everything is in order, screw the side screws.

Fasten the supports to the frames of the tabletops

We connect the two halves of the table, also on hinges located at a short distance from the ends of the covers. We screw the loops onto the screws so that the halves fold easily.

We connect the two halves of the massage table on the hinges

Strut making

The part that will give stability to the massage table and determine its height is made from two bars 53 cm long. We connect their short ends with a piano loop, we get a spacer 1060 mm long. The value is approximate, the length can be determined along the way. The point here is that the shorter the spacer, the higher the table. We fasten the ends of the element to the short sides of the legs, using the same loops and self-tapping screws.

Scheme and photo of the massage table spacers

We lay out the table for massage and check it for strength. We install latches on the end sides so that the folded table retains its shape. Attach a carrying handle on top. The equipment is ready to go.

Looking at such a fashion item, I want to exclaim: we did it! After all, a beautiful and durable massage table is not only convenient to use, but also inspires patients with subconscious confidence in the effectiveness of massage. Now, having seen enough of the creation of your own hands, you can safely start private practice.

For effective massage, knowledge and skillful hands alone are not enough. Much depends on the right massage table. Of course, an ordinary table or a couch can be used for massage, but a specialized massage table is ideal for this. Many years of engineering work and serious clinical trials have made modern massage tables almost perfect:

  • in terms of ergonomics,
  • achieving maximum relaxation in the massaged person,
  • effect during the massage.

There are the following parameters that you need to pay attention to when choosing a massage table.

Table elements

A standard massage table consists of a frame, tabletop, headrest, legs and additional elements.

The frame is made from:

  • Become . Such models are very durable, hardy and have a long service life.
  • tree. These models are eco-friendly, reliable and stylish.
  • aluminum . Often these are portable models of massage tables due to the lightness of the frame. They are reliable, resistant to moisture and mechanical damage.

The standard worktop has a rectangular shape with a possible narrowing in the middle. Massage tables can have up to three sections. The number of sections is chosen based on the procedures and types of massage that will be performed on the table.

  1. Single section massage table
  2. A single-section massage table with a monolithic couch can be used for any type of massage. Additional accessories are used to increase operational capabilities. It has an increased load capacity up to 2 tons. The section is height adjustable.

    The two-section table has great functionality. On it, you can massage in any position - classic on the stomach, reclining, and even add a lymphatic drainage procedure. The first section is fixed. The second section is raised manually, with the help of an air spring or an electric motor. Useful for cosmetologists, osteopaths and spa masters.

    The most functional model of all. All three parts of the table can work independently of each other, rise or fall. On this massage table, you can carry out any procedures related to massage, cosmetology, reflexology, acupuncture and spinal stretching.

Headrests are stationary and removable, which are attached on one side or from any end. They can have a standard or anatomical shape, which has small cutouts that allow you to put your head in such a way that your face does not touch the upholstery. When not needed, the cutouts are closed with special plugs. Cutouts are mainly used for collar massage, allowing the person being massaged to relax completely.

The number of legs is from 4 to 8, where the first 4 are the main ones, and the rest are auxiliary and are used for greater reliability.

Additional items include:

  • side armrests,
  • hand shelves,
  • U-shaped pillows to adjust the position of the neck and shoulders,
  • roller under the back, for the neck, for the knees or feet,
  • shelves for towels, sheets, oils and other massage accessories.

Dimensions

For a comfortable massage of people of different builds, it is better to choose a wide table, but narrow enough for free access to any part of the massaged body. In order to choose a suitable massage table in size, you need to come very close to the table and turn around in the lumbar region. In this position, the shoulders of the massage therapist should be aligned parallel to the hips of the massaged, and the hands should be parallel to the spine.

Width

The most popular tables are 70 or 76 cm wide. Narrower models are suitable for people of small stature who are uncomfortable working at a standard-sized massage table. An interesting version of the model tapering in the middle in the shape of an hourglass. This design will allow you to approach the massaged person much closer from the side and at the same time will not cause him discomfort due to the rather wide ends of the table.

Length

The standard length of the massage table is 185 cm. Suitable for most people. Therefore, a beauty salon is recommended to take just such a table. Models with a special hole for the face lengthen the size of any table by 20 cm. Therefore, a standard massage table of this type will be 205 cm long.

What else is important to know about choosing the length of the massage table? A table that is too short will create discomfort for the person being massaged, but will save on the width of the table, which will be convenient for an energetic and mobile masseur. Too long a table will only complicate the massage process.

Adjustable height

Most modern massage tables are height adjustable. For comfortable work, it is better to choose a table with adjustment in the range of 60-80 cm. It is also important to pay attention to the time to adjust the desired height. This process should not exceed 3 minutes. There are 2 types of height adjustment mechanisms:

  • Telescopic leg adjustment system. It can be found in aluminum massage tables. Outwardly, this mechanism is similar to the devices used in medical crutches. Changing the height with this mechanism is very simple, just press a special button and fix the table at the desired height.
  • Screw-down buttons on the legs. With this mechanism, setting the desired height takes a little longer than the previous one, but no more than two minutes. The massage table, depending on the price, can have either one or 2 buttons, which must first be unscrewed to set the desired height, and then screwed to fix the height.

The weight

The weight of the massage table is best chosen based on its future use. It is better for a masseur to go to a massage session with his table to focus on a weight of 10 to 20 kg. It is also desirable that the design of the table be foldable for more convenient transportation. Such models are more expensive than conventional wooden tables, because they are made of aluminum. If the table is too heavy for the user, then a special wheelchair can be used for transportation. If the table is not planned to be moved and transported, then the weight of the table does not play a special role.

Payload

The weight that the massage table can withstand on the surface and on individual parts must be selected several times with a margin. The maximum weight of the massaged summed up with the efforts of the massage therapist should not exceed 1/3 of the payload value. Otherwise, a quick breakdown of the table is guaranteed.

Filler thickness

The greater the thickness of the filler, the longer the massage table will last and does not become thinner over time. Also, this indicator affects the level of comfort massaged during the massage. Polyurethane, foam rubber or a mixed type with a thickness of 5-7 cm is used as a filler. Any option should be durable and have good cushioning properties.

massage table upholstery

Today, upholstery does not play a role when choosing a massage table. Many people prefer to use separate, removable covers that can be easily removed and washed. Usually, the upholstery for a massage table is made of artificial leather:

  1. Vinyl upholstery.
  2. A very popular and commonly used synthetic leatherette. According to its qualities, it is strong, durable, resistant to water and oils. Its main disadvantage is that it wears out quickly with frequent use.

  3. Polyurethane upholstery.
  4. In terms of characteristics and properties, it is more similar to real leather than other synthetic materials. It is soft and pleasant to the touch. The quality is very durable. Of the minuses - low resistance to water and oils, which, if they get on the upholstery, will quickly damage it.

  5. Arpatek.
  6. This is premium material. Used for upholstery of expensive models. Very hygienic. Just like genuine leather, it cannot accumulate pathogenic surfaces on its surface, because. the structure of the material is not porous and does not have microcracks.

The main requirements for coating materials are that they must be:

  • durable,
  • resistant to abrasion and mechanical damage,
  • pleasant to the touch,
  • beautiful,
  • not requiring special care.

Drive unit

The presence of a pneumatic spring or hydraulic drive will simplify the setting of the table and help you change the height of the table right during the massage, which will increase the wear of the legs. When choosing a massage table, it is important to consider that the electric motor increases the cost of the table by 50%.

cable system

It is recommended to choose portable massage tables with this system, which is also known as the tensor cable system. It is needed to give more stability and reliability to folding massage tables, fixing the legs and preventing the table from moving forward or backward.

Warranty

When buying a massage table, make sure you get the branded guarantee term at least 1 year. Some manufacturers provide warranties up to 36 months.

It is important to know that massage tables, as a rule, are not subject to exchange and return. An exchange of a model or a refund of the money paid is possible only within 14 days from the date of purchase of the goods and only if the examination proves that the manufacturer or seller is to blame for the appearance of defects.

Features of choosing a folding portable table

The portable table is designed for visiting specialists (masseurs, cosmetologists, chiropractors, osteopaths, depilation masters), because. unprofessional surface is contraindicated for massage. Not only will the massage not be carried out effectively, but there may be problems with the spine and lower back of the person being massaged. Portable tables fold into a suitcase, conveniently carried and placed in the trunk of a car.

When choosing a folding table, you need to make sure:

  • that it simply unfolds into a working position;
  • stable, motionless and reliable in the open position;
  • withstands the necessary load (the weight of the person being massaged and the massage therapist);
  • easily adjustable in height from 65 to 90 cm;
  • width no less than a table 60 cm. and no more 70 cm.
  • height table is 180-190 cm.
  • easily transported.

The weight

The weight folding table should not exceed 15 kg. The weight of a folding massage table depends on the material from which it is made:

  • The carbon fiber table weighs approx. 7 kg.
  • Dural table weighs approx. 10 kg.
  • The steel table weighs approx. 20 kg.

Accessories

Depending on the configuration, the folding table may have additional devices:

  • headrest (should be easily attached to the table and the angle of inclination should be adjusted);
  • armrests;
  • roller;
  • holes for the face;
  • protective caps on the legs (to prevent possible damage to the flooring).

Sections in folding massage tables

At portable massage tables can be no more than two sections: main and lifting. Parts folding the table and accessories are not sections.

It is difficult to find a person who would not love massage! A relaxed patient lies on the table, and the massage therapist’s strong hands relieve muscle spasms accumulated over the years, stimulate pleasant emotions and, undoubtedly, improve the overall health of the body! It seemed that could overshadow the flow of incredible pleasure? However, there are such factors. There are two of them - an unskilled, rude masseur and ... an uncomfortable massage table!

The first phenomenon is desperately fought by modern medical science and the ever-increasing competition in this profession. Few people think about the admissibility of the second phenomenon, nevertheless it is no less relevant, and in this article we will try to exclude it by choosing a massage table that is comfortable, convenient for both the specialist and the patient.

For consideration in this article, 5 options for massage tables will be presented, the pros and cons of each will be provided, but which one to choose - each professional will decide for himself.

  • Convenience for the patient: this is perhaps one of the most important aspects, since it can significantly spoil the most qualified work of a specialist and, thereby, reduce the flow of patients. What is included in this category: the softness of the materials of the table couch, the outer upholstery, the presence of additional devices under the arms, the sense of security (stability);
  • The cost of the table: this parameter is put in the next place, because it plays the second leading role in the choice of "assistant massage therapist";
  • The external dimensions of the table, the ability to dynamically adapt to the conditions of the room: the massage therapist can visit different types of apartments, including small ones, but if he does not plan traveling work, then this factor is not so important, since the table in this case will be selected for certain conditions ;
  • Dynamism of the design: different massage options provide for different inclinations of the table, its general rise or descent, the rise of individual parts, the adjustment of the table to the height of the massage therapist and the patient.
  • Ability to withstand heavy loads: this parameter is relative and depends on the specifics of the massage therapist’s work: if the massage therapist deals exclusively with children and adolescence, then this criterion will not play any role. In the opposite case, if a specialist conducts classes with persons seeking to lose weight or patients who have had a stroke, this parameter will be decisive when choosing a table;
  • Convenience of cleaning the table: in the process of work, one way or another, the table can get dirty (massage products drip, patients sweat, if they are children, then there may be involuntary urination) - the material of the device must be cleaned well and quickly.

Rating of the best massage tables

The first version of the Russian manufacturer. It is produced in St. Petersburg by the Phoenix Plus company. Before us is a folding massage table of the classic type, which does not provide for any special frills. Budget option, which is perfect for beginner massage therapists.

The internal components of the coating are represented by a 30 mm layer of foam type ST.

  • The outer cover is high quality leatherette. Medium hardness. The legs are aluminum, the back surface is represented by a plywood coating. The structure doesn't look strong.
  • The table looks like a product of a not very expensive segment. The average cost in Russia varies between 3200 - 5700 rubles, depending on the supplier and delivery.
  • External dimensions of the table: 190 x 70 cm. Not suitable for working with people whose height exceeds 1 meter 90 cm. Perfect for working with children. When folded, the bag will occupy the surface: 95x70x15 cm, which looks quite compact;
  • The table has an additional hole for the face, a roller, is able to fold, change the height, according to the type of massage, there is no possibility to install the back;
  • The product is able to withstand loads up to 200 kg, which excludes work with obese people, the weight of the table when folded is 11.5 kg;
  • The outer material of the table is leatherette. On the one hand, this material is perfectly cleaned of any massage products, however, it is able to absorb and retain odors for a long time, both from cosmetics and patient discharges. When choosing a table, it is advisable to choose dark coatings, since light ones are very easily soiled and difficult to clean from external contaminants;

Massage table Phoenix Light Master 190P

Advantages:

  • inexpensive price segment;
  • the ability to fold compactly;
  • relatively easy to carry.

Disadvantages:

  • fragility of the design, not designed to work with tall and obese people;
  • average degree of convenience;
  • soiledness;
  • absorption of odors.

Mounting material. There are models made with outright negligence: the handles are crooked, the under-table cables are somehow fastened together, in some places there are gaps in the fastening;

Conclusion:

This table is suitable for working with small children and adults of average height and weight. A budget option, not of very high quality, however, this segment is necessary for people who do not have a large initial budget.

The next option would be a massage table from the Chinese manufacturer DFC of the NIRVANA series, subspecies Relax. This item is more advanced than the previous ones, but has both its pluses and minuses. This option is folding, but in the price segment it will be related to the mid-budget options.

  • From the patient's point of view, this table is very inviting: a pleasant to the touch surface, a softer coating. In this version, artificial leather (PVC) is used. The internal filler is represented by foam rubber with a thickness of 40 mm, which is quite comfortable for the patient, there are armrests for the hands and a hole for the face. The design features of the frame include a combination of wooden (beech) bottom inserts and metal inserts, giving the table greater strength;
  • The price segment of the table varies from 8,000 to 14,000 rubles. This is a mid-budget option;
  • The external dimensions of the table are 186 x 70 x 63 cm. However, the maximum height of the table can be 84 cm, because legs are adjustable. The table is not very large, it may not be suitable for working with persons whose height will be higher than 1m.90cm. Great for working with kids. Dimensions in the folded state are calculated by the parameters 95 x18 x75 cm, which allows you to compactly store and carry the device;
  • The product has a number of special devices for the patient: holes for the face, armrests, an additional headrest, rollers. It is able to fold compactly, change the height, and due to the 3-section addition, it is possible to lift individual parts;
  • The table can withstand a fairly large mass - 250 kg, which gives more opportunities to work with people of different weight categories, however, when folded, the table is quite heavy - its weight exceeds 15 kg.,
  • The table top is leatherette of good average quality, which allows us to draw a number of disappointing conclusions: 1) not resistant to the effects of accidentally spilled cosmetics, it can peel over time; 2) after purchase, the industrial smell of leatherette lasts for a long time, which can provoke headaches. However, unlike the previous version, this one does not retain the smells of secretions and perfumes and is easily wiped from dirt.

Massage table DFC NIRVANA Relax pro

Advantages:

  • solid appearance;
  • relatively durable;
  • There are facilities for patients.

Disadvantages:

  • heavy to carry;
  • poor coverage;
  • sharp corners of the edges of the table - when moving, you can get hurt.

What you should pay attention to:

There are fakes. You should carefully study the instructions for this product in order to timely check the assembly status and accessories for the table.

Conclusion:

This table is well suited for almost all types of massage, from children's to professional anti-cellulite option.

Another young Russian company producing massage tables. It has been on the market for only 4 years, but has already established itself as a quality product. The table of the initial professional purpose is considered, intended both for accomplished masseurs and beginners in the profession. This option is a folding type, i.e. provides transportation to another location. The price segment is medium-budget.

  • Medium firm table. This option has a good pleasant coating like eco-leather, the thickness of the inner layer of foam rubber is 35 mm. There is a hole for the face.
  • The price segment of the table is medium-budget. This option can be purchased in the range from 8,500 to 11,000 rubles.
  • The external dimensions of the table are: 190 x 70 x 60 cm. It can rise up to 95 cm in height. Just like in the previous options, there will be a slight difficulty in working with people who are too tall. When folded, the bag has parameters: 95 x 70 x 18 cm, which is compact enough to carry.
  • The table has a 3-section addition, can change the height. Suitable for both classic massage and tattooing. It can function as a couch for massaging babies, as the main advantage is the high leg lift;
  • The table can withstand very heavy loads, is designed for a mass of up to 230 kg, and the pressure at one point can be up to 95 kg, which allows you to work on it with fairly obese people. But, along with this, in a folding state, this option is heavy - 18 kg. This is due to the presence of a wooden insert at the bottom (beech) and a combined material of the legs (aluminum, metal).
  • From the point of view of care, this option is ideal, since the eco-leather coating is well wiped off dirt, practically not easily soiled, does not peel off and weakly absorbs third-party odors.

Massage table Mass Stol "Profi" 190X

Advantages:

  • lasting;
  • able to climb to a good height;
  • eco-leather material;
  • optimal price.

Disadvantages:

  • Heavy when folded.

What you should pay attention to when buying:

There are no special moments, with the exception of an individual marriage in fasteners and appearance.

Conclusion:

Quite a worthy model for a beginner massage therapist who has his own car (because it’s hard to carry it on your own, especially for women).

This table belongs to the initial professional models and is intended for massage therapists who have some experience in their profession. The table has a beautiful appearance and a fairly solid internal structure. This is a folding model that can be carried to a place convenient for the specialist and the patient.

  • The table is quite soft. The internal material is represented by an elastic gas-filled polycretan plastic with a thickness of 50 mm, which is very comfortable for patients to stay;
  • The price segment is medium. This product can be purchased in the range from 12 to 18,000 rubles.
  • The external dimensions of the table are determined by the parameters 185 x 63 x 65 cm. The table can be raised to a height of up to 85 cm. It should be noted here that this table will be difficult to use for persons whose height is above 185 cm, even despite the additional headrest, the width will also be modest - only 63 cm, which in turn will complicate the work with overweight patients. Folded size: 93 x 63 x 16 cm. Compact enough to carry.
  • Table of the 3rd section addition. It has many devices for the patient, a roller, an additional headrest, armrests, there are additional straps for fixation, which allows you to work with children and patients with mental disabilities;
  • The product can withstand loads from 250 kg, which is a very good indicator, but when folded it is quite heavy - 14.5 kg., thanks to the beech finish of the frame, partially the legs and metal alloys of the structure;
  • From the point of view of care, this option is conditionally ideal, since the Arpatek coating used, despite being perfectly cleaned, can burn out and absorb minor impurities over time. From this point of view, light colors of the table are not desirable for selection. A significant plus is the fact that the table practically does not absorb third-party odors.

Massage table Yamaguchi Nagano

Advantages:

  • well cleaned;
  • has many accessories.

Disadvantages:

  • Small size;
  • easily soiled;
  • heavy to carry.

What you should pay attention to when buying:

On the color of the coating. Light colors are not desirable.

Conclusion:

An excellent model for the average professional who has his own car.

The first place is rightfully occupied by the RestArt “Artmassage” portable massage table, assembled in China using German technology. This product stands out among all other models with its exquisite design, pleasant coating and convenience of functional use. Nevertheless, this option is not cheap enough in cost and is intended for massage therapists with experience in the profession.

  • Comfortable soft covering made of genuine leather with rounded edges at the edges. The internal filler, as in the previous version, is represented by gas-filled polyurethane plastic of high quality and compliance with a thickness of 50 mm.
  • The table belongs to the expensive price segment, the initial price starts from 18,000 to 40,000 rubles. On average, it can be found for 25 - 30,000 rubles.
  • Solid external dimensions: 195 x 70 x 70 cm, the maximum table height can reach 90 cm, which allows you to work not only with tall and obese patients, but also with infants. The size of the bag is a bit large compared to the previous options, but nevertheless it is not critical for storage and transfer. Here it is: 100 x 70 x 16 cm.
  • There are ample opportunities for additional functionality: a hole for the face, armrests, lifting additional sections if necessary.
  • The product is able to withstand colossal loads of up to 300 kg, the load at one point is measured by a parameter of 100 kg, however, the lack of all massive models still remains - the weight is 18.5 kg. The model is heavy for independent transfer.
  • The medical skin of the coating is ideal for cleaning - the product is well cleaned, does not absorb odors, does not fade, however, specialized daily care products will be needed to prevent premature wear of the coating.

Massage table RestArt «Artmassage»

Advantages:

  • multifunctionality;
  • solid appearance of both the table and the bag;
  • The cover is easy to clean.

Disadvantages:

  • Heavy to carry;
  • expensive in cost.

What you should pay attention to:

On the quality of the finish, because due to the high price and demand, the model is often faked.

Conclusion:

Excellent model for its price segment. Suitable for middle and high class professionals who have their own car. Adds solidity to the specialist.

The massage table is not only a full-fledged assistant, but also a mirror of the specialist himself. You should take a responsible approach to the choice of this device, since it is not a one-time value, and the appearance can tell a lot about the massage therapist. In this article, both simple models that have already proven themselves on the market, and relatively young models that are just being mastered, but already demonstrating their quality indicators, were considered. This article is designed to help you make the right choice.

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