Hi
Firstly this is the first forum I have ever looked at let alone joined so please bear with me.
I'm a fairly new massage therapist and I already need to upgrade my table as I would like to offer pre/postnatal massage and the table I have does not have a back rest.
Could anyone recommened a table that is light enough for mobile massage, has a back rest and can accomodate a larger person comfortabley (so has a good working weight and at least 28" wide I guess).
There are so many tables out there that seem a great price but when you look at the details they are all quite narrow and not strong enough.
Any advice at all would be greatly appreciated.
J 🙂
Hello and welcome to Healthypages 🙂
I'm afraid you were quite right about duplicate posts not being allowed though, so with apologies I've deleted the one in New Members. 😮 Do, however, please feel free to re-post there, but more by way of a general hello and introduction. You can be sure of a warm welcome.
So far as the massage table question is concerned, again I'm sure you'll get replies here, but in the meantime you might like to use Search, top right of the page, with 'massage table' as your search term, and you should get a list of former threads on the subject, because it's one that's quite often discussed.
Best wishes,
Holistic
Moderator
Hiya and welcome to HP,
You can buy a wedge bolster that you attatch to your massage table. I got mine from www.massagetablestore.co.uk click on oak work bolsters.
As mentioned already there are a number of posts already about massage tables so do a quick search.
A good idea is to get a table with adjustable legs. You are likely to find that you need a lower table as your massage experience increases.
The wider the table, it is usually heavier, and the lift up back rest generally add quite a bit of weight to the table.
If you think you need the left up back rest for prenatal - you don't. I do a LOT of prenatal massage. Most of the discomfort is the lower back, you just can't access the main problem area with them sitting up.
What you need is a lot of cushions, or a cushioning system that allows them to be comfortable either on their side or even face down (though they are more difficult to find) I use a bodyCushion, it works for positioning either way and is amazing, well worth the expense, and very light and easily portable. It all fits in a supplied backpack, it looks like you're moving in when you turn up with table and backpack and sound system, but it is light and fast to set up. I purchased mine online, sight unseen, from America about 10years ago and is is probably the best investment I have ever made, in peak baby season, it can pay for itself every week! I have people on their 3rd and 4th pregnancy still coming to me because of the cushioning system. There are other systems, but they often don't help with side -positioning, they're not as flexible.
The bodyCushion can be used for anyone, they don't have to be pregnant, and it can make any massage table feel comfortable (it can even be used on a dining table and feel comfortable)
Thank you for the welcome
I have taken your advice and indeed there is lots of useful info already posted. Will look before I ask in future.
Thanks and Regards
J
Hi Cola
Thanks for the advice. I have looked at the bodyCushion online and it does look like a fabulous piece of equipment, however, just starting out I don't want to spend that much. I know it would probably be worth it in the long run , maybe once I have a little more experience.
Essence99
If I could do prenatal massage on my existing table that would be excellent but would the wedge offer enough support? How do they stay in place?
thanks again
Once the client is lying on it this keeps the wedge in place. It is at a set angle so if you needed more elevation you'd need to add a pillows.
That is great advice from Cola. If you are serious about pregnancy massage the cushion system is the way to go. Yes, its expensive but cheap enough spread out over time as it will last you many many years.
Myself, I use the "porta-lite aluminium" [DLMURL="http://www.massagewarehouse.co.uk/items/products/massage-tables/porta-lite-aluminium-detail.htmas"] http://www.massagewarehouse.co.uk/items/products/massage-tables/porta-lite-aluminium-detail.htm [/DLMURL]
as it has the largest working weight of a table I have seen. I can take 500lbs working weight. I use it with wedges for pregnancy massage.
I have also tried out a product called the bumpbag but it is too low for the therapist so you will end up injuring your back but it is reasonably comfortable ive been told by the client.
Hi
I had mine from www.therapyessentials.co.uk. Mine is a Comfortflex Affinity and has an adjustable back, comes with a carry bag and separate head support. It also has reiki end panels. Hope this helps. xx