|
Choosing a Massage Table
If you are reading this article you are probably looking to purchase a massage table. You may be an acupuncture or massage student, of just looking for a way to help your spouse relax. In any event this is most likely a major investment for you and one you would rather not replace because it did not meet your needs. In this article we will look at Chattanooga's Adapta massage tables and consider factors such as weight capacity, physical weight, upholstery and padding, safety features and price. If you decide to purchase another brand the basics in this article will help you decide on a model or style. Chattanooga is been in business for 60 years and they are well respected in the field of physical therapy and chiropractics.
Our first consideration is weight capacity, the Chattanooga's Adapta massage tables all have a static weight capacity of 2,000 lbs. and a working weight capacity of 420 lbs. or 525 lbs. depending on the model. Your first thought may be, none of my patients or clients are going to weigh that much. But remember who may be sitting on the edge of the table. I have seen many acupuncture demonstrations where a massage table was used as a bench for 6 people who were watching the demonstration. If each person weighs 200 lbs. that equals 1,200 lbs of weight on the table. If you have a 200 lb. client or patient and you sit on the edge of the table, you are now up to 400 lbs (assumming you weigh 200 lbs.) If a friend walks in and sits on the edge of the table static weight could now be up to 600 lb. Remember the acromym CYA (cover your a--). Anticipate the unexpected, because others will not think of it. Buy the sturdiest table you can afford and remember the difference between static weight and working weight when you compare capacities.
The second consideration is physical weight. You don't get something for nothing. When the table becomes lighter you loose something, usually table width and padding thickness. Many times the frame becomes lighter or the supports become sparse. The exception is an alumunum frame which retains its strength while reducing weight. Although this table is still narrower and the padding still thinner, this may be an acceptable tradeoff. If you are a small person who has to carry a table for any distance the lighter weight may be welcome. Chattanooga's Adapta MT 100 weights 36 lbs while the aluminum Adapta AT 100 weighs 27 lbs. My advice: If you have to carry your table alot go for aluminum, if not get a hardwood frame with the wider table and thicker padding.
The third consideration is the padding and vinyl upholstry. Many of you have seen older massage tables with splits in the vinyl. This is because the vinyl has been stretched tighter which places it under constant tension. It looks better but you don't want to replace the vinyl. When a patient lies on the table this further stretches the vinyl and shorters its lifespan. The padding is also compressed when stretched so even if you start with 3" pading you may wind up with 2" and a hard table. Color is less important since it will be covered with sheets.
Next is safety. Remember CYA. The worse thing that could happen is that your table collapses with a patient or client on it, not to mention embarrasing. The Chattanooga Adapta hardwood frame tables have double screw locks on each leg. This means that if one of the screw locks loosens up , the other will hold it in place. If there is only one screw lock the leg could pivot on the screw and the table leg could collapse, dumping your patient on the floor (outch).
A nice featue of the Chattanooga adjustable face cradle is that it locks to the table and will not pull out unless unlocked. This may not be a safety issue, but I don't' like pieces that can fall off of my table.
Lastly we will consider price. This one is easy, purchase the best table you can afford.
The Chattanooga Adapta MT 100 had a hardwood frame, it is a fairly heavy table at 36 lbs. but still portable, This table is 30" wide with 3" of padding. It has double leg locks for added safety and the adjustable face cradle will not pull out unless unlocked. This a great table if it is not carried for long distances. Option include a carrying case and sling style armrest. Get the adjustable face cradle for this one.
The Chattanooga Adapta AT 100 has an aluminum frame which is strong and lightweight. The leg locks use spring buttons which are secure and easy to adjust. The table width is 28" and the padding is 2" thick to save weight. It is light weight and a good choice for those who will be transporting their massage tables for some distance. Options include a carrying case and sling style armrest. Get the Adjustable face cradle with this one also.
The Chattanooga Adapta ET 100 is the economy model and it is about half the price of the other two tables. Itis a good choice if you are on a strict budget. It has a lighter hardwood frame that is 28" with 2" of padding. This table is a little more difficult to set up (two struts need to be snapped in place) and if you sit on the front edge with no weight on the table there is some leg wobble because the center lifts up slightly. This does not happen when a patient is lying on the table. It also has double leg screw locks. Options include a less expensive face cradle that does not adjust, a carrying case and a sling style armrest.
I hope this article helps you choose the right massage table.
-Scott Rickey
|
