Everyone knows about the delights of massage, but few know about the difficulties of performing this procedure. In fact, massage is a very difficult and tedious job, even for experienced and trained masters. One can only imagine what kind of load the massage therapist feels all day doing massage.
The main instrument of the massage therapist is the table. It is the correct adjustment of the massage table that affects the preservation of health and the increase in the efficiency of the massage therapist. Before proceeding with the implementation of massage procedures, it is necessary to learn the rules for organizing the ergonomics of the workplace, i.e. massage table. The height of the massage table can vary from 60 to 90 cm. It is this parameter that is most important, and special attention should be paid to its adjustment.
What is the correct table height?
This is not to say that 60 or 80 centimeters will be a suitable height. It all depends on the anthropometric dimensions of the specialist. Moreover, the height does not play a role, but the length of the hands of the massage therapist.
So, go to the side of the table. Stand so that your arms hang freely along the body. The ideal height will be when the hand, clenched into a fist, touches the surface of the table.
In addition to such a measurement, it is necessary to take into account the parameters of the person who is to be massaged. For example, massaging a patient with a solid physique will require more movement, and therefore, a lower seating table will provide more space for activity. In general, everyone sets workplace as it is convenient for him, however, do not forget about the rules.
Consider the variations in height changes on the tables of the American company US Medica Sakura and Master. Both tables have long established themselves as the ideal tool for professional massage. The difference between these tables is constructive solutions. Master is realized in precious wood, and Sakura is based on a tubular frame made of high-strength steel. We will not describe here the unreliability and ergonomic qualities of these tables, they are impeccable. We are interested in the possibility of customizing these tables for the master.
Now, the Sakura has an incredible range, the adjustment of which allows changes in height from 59 to 84 cm. This figure indicates an almost comprehensive setting. The Sakura massage table will "adjust" to any person and any task. The height is adjustable by extending the legs and fixed with screw buttons. Each leg has two buttons, which gives the design additional reliability and stability.
Master massage table boasts no less outstanding functionality. Its design provides for a slightly different height adjustment range (62-88 cm), but at the same time, it is these height parameters that are most in demand. The Master table height adjustment mechanism is presented in the form of a telescopic system, which makes the adjustment as quick and practical as possible.
Remember, all settings are completely individual. At the same time, it is better to immediately develop the right habit, later this will have a positive effect on overall performance, and, consequently, the effectiveness of the procedures.
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 hard wood. 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, we will 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, solving the question of how to make a massage table yourself without involving 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 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 the massage table stability 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.
Each massage therapist, regardless of his preferences, sooner or later will have to think about buying a massage table or couch. In addition to some Eastern manual therapy techniques, all others require the use of specialized equipment that can be adjusted to the client and specialist.
The massage table and the couch are an item that is essential for experienced craftsman. But a table and a couch are not the same thing and it is worth understanding the terms.
The massage table has large dimensions of 80 by 220 cm on average, sufficient for a patient of any size to feel comfortable. May have armrests, special oil drains, lifts, headrests and foot pads.
The couch has a lightweight design, most often it can be folded. There are models with adjustable legs, which greatly facilitates its installation even on uneven surfaces. Equipment with an electric drive can be placed in a separate category, its presence allows you to quickly change the position of the sections, their angle of inclination, and such models also have wheels that simplify their transportation.
Massage tables are up to 10 times more expensive, depending on the configuration and materials used, than couches, they are installed in spas, physiotherapy and manual therapy rooms.
Massage couches are also in demand, they are good to use for on-site sessions, in small beauty parlors, as well as for your own home use, folding models can be removed under the sofa or on the closet and they will not take up much space.
Choosing a massage table and a couch
We decide whether we need a stationary model or a portable one. It depends on whether there will be home visits or the equipment will be in one place.
We select the necessary equipment parameters. Standard length 185 cm, width 70-76 cm. The height should be adjustable, optimally from 60 to 85 cm. The shape of the table can be different, rectangular, oval or hourglass shaped. The form should be convenient for a specialist who needs to approach the patient from different angles.
Number of sections. There are one-section, two-section and three-section massage tables. Two-section are divided into two parts, usually have a headrest, in three-section one of the sections is divided into two parts, one of which serves as a headrest.
materials. The frames of the couches and tables can be made of aluminium, steel or wood. Popular upholstery is eco-leather and PVC, because of the reliability and safety.
Budget. An important component of choosing a couch and table model is its cost. There are budget models that will provide sufficient comfort for the patient and the massage therapist. But if the budget allows, give preference to reliable equipment with increased functionality.
What not to buy
IMPORTANT: Massage tables and couches belong to the class of health-improving equipment, so its quality and manufacturer's guarantees are important. Beware of buying tables from hands, used and without proper documents. In this case, you can get badly worn, loose and made of unreliable materials.
Maintenance of tables and couches
After the end of each procedure, it is necessary to clean the surface of the table, the headrests and the hole for the head. by special means without alcohol and chlorine, so as not to damage the surface of the table. Then you need to dry the surface.
Once every two weeks, inspect the equipment for loosening, corrosion and mechanical damage, lubricate moving parts with engine oil if necessary.
IMPORTANT: Do not exceed the maximum dynamic load on the table, because of this it will quickly wear out. If the instructions say 220 kg, then the patient's weight should be no more than 120 kg, because. pressure during the procedure can reach 100 kg.
Main manufacturers
There are many manufacturers of massage tables and couches on our market, each has its own advantages.
English firm massage paradise manufactures high-quality and inexpensive equipment, from 9 to 17 thousand rubles due to the location of production in China. Table frames are made of beech or steel.
Japanese firm Yamaguchi specializes in ultralight equipment, but also produces other types of massage tables.
Italian company Anatomico prefer salons for which unique design and elegance of equipment are important.
Finns Fysiotech make lightweight aluminum massage tables and couches, many of which are specialized for special types of massage and physiotherapy. Prices from 25 to 30 thousand rubles.
Factory MASS-stol — Russian manufacturer massage tables, which specializes in inexpensive compact massage tables and couches. Prices from 3600 to 11000 rubles.
Popular Models
Fysiotech Compact Osteopath 2009– a folding table for a wide range of procedures made of high-quality leatherette from a Finnish manufacturer Fysiotech. It has a compact size of 80 by 62 centimeters when folded. When deployed 197 by 62 cm, the height of the legs is adjustable from 65 to 80 cm. The set includes a continuously adjustable headrest, the weight of the table is 16 kg. The cost is about 44 thousand rubles.
NAGANO 1998- a sophisticated premium model from a Japanese manufacturer YAMAGUCHI. Stands out for ergonomics and stability. The frame is made of beech, arpatek finish, which is distinguished by its wear resistance and hygiene. Dimensions 185 by 63 cm, the headrests and armrests included in the kit increase the usable area to 210 by 86 cm. Legs are adjustable from 64 to 84 cm. Weight - 12 kg. The model folds into a convenient bag. The cost is 16 thousand rubles.
ANATOMIC DOLCE from an Italian company Anatomico- one of the lightest massage tables made of beech. It features beautiful design, lightness and special cable ties designed for aircraft. This model is preferred by female massage therapists.
Dimensions 195 by 70 cm, height adjustable from 62 to 84 cm. Weight 14.4 kg. The cost is from 30 thousand rubles.
US MEDICA Profi- top model among stationary models. Strong and durable steel model with beech decoration. Arpatek upholstery, characterized by practicality. Headrests, height and each section are adjustable. Dimensions 184 by 76 cm, height adjustable from 53 to 99 cm. Weight 84.2 kg. The cost is from 150 thousand rubles.
For an effective massage of some knowledge and skillful hands 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.
- Single section massage table
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 lifted 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 have a width of 70 or 76 cm. Narrower models are suitable for people of small stature who are uncomfortable working at a massage table standard size. An interesting option models 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.
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. Similar models are more expensive than usual 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:
- Vinyl upholstery.
- Polyurethane upholstery.
- Arpatek.
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.
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.
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.
Guarantee
When buying a massage table, make sure you get the branded guarantee term at least 1 year. Some manufacturers offer 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.
Weight
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 accessories:
- 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.