Without certain massage table accessories, your options for client positioning are severely limited. That’s why most massage therapists look for a massage table package that includes a headrest and arm shelf, at the very least.

Other massage table packages may include side arm extenders, a massage table bag, bolster pillows, or a table cart. These accessories can also be purchased separately. So if you don’t have the funds to purchase all of the massage table accessories you need when you purchase the table, you can always make these purchases later or as the need arises.

Face Cradle / Headrest

An aluminum face cradle offers strength and durability.

Several types of headrests are available on the market. The cheapest headrests are stationary, which means you can’t adjust the height or angle. For a slightly higher price, you can buy a face cradle that allows for multiple adjustments. Most therapists prefer adjustable face cradles for more flexibility in client positioning.

Headrests are made from different materials. Some headrest materials are stronger and more durable than others. Plastic is the cheapest type of headrest but does not have the same strength or durability as metal or aluminum.

Forward Arm Shelf

Along with the headrest, most therapists prefer a forward arm shelf. A massage stool can double as a temporary arm shelf, but it is less professional and less convenient than a forward arm rest. A massage stool used as an arm rest can also get in the way as you move around the table.

Side Arm Extenders

Side extenders come in handy for wider clients.

Package Deals

For the best deal, look for a massage table package that includes all of the basic accessories that you need. It’s generally cheaper than buying all of your accessories separately.

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

When shopping for a massage table, it’s important to consider both your clients’ comfort and your own comfort. As a massage therapist, you will be working long hours around your massage table. The more comfortable and ergonomic your massage equipment is, the easier it will be for you to prevent injuries and the more you will be able to enjoy working with your clients.

Massage table features that increase client and therapist comfort:

1. Backrest Lift

Do you offer facials and spa treatments? A back lift easily converts your massage table into a spa table. A back lift can increase client comfort during reflexology and massage in the supine position. Also, clients with allergies, sinus problems, or a runny nose may be more comfortable with the head and chest area in an elevated position.

Most back rest lifts can be adjusted to different angles to meet your needs—anywhere from a few degrees of elevation up to a full sitting position. When lowered, the backrest is flush with the table top.



These massage table side extensions are removable.

2. Side Arm Extenders

Do you have clients with a wide body type? Side arm extenders can increase your clients’ comfort while still allowing you to choose a narrow enough width to maintain correct posture as you massage. Side extensions are removable, so you can use them or remove them as needed.

3. Face Portal

A face portal, also known as a breath hole or face hole, can increase client comfort by giving your client the option to use either the face cradle or the face portal. Some clients may find it more comfortable to use one or the other. Also, depending on the type of massage you are giving, you may find it more convenient to position your client using either the face cradle or the portal.

4. Rounded Corners

One massage table feature that focuses on therapist comfort is the corner shape. Rounded corners make it easier to maneuver around your massage table without bumping your hip into the table corner. Some therapists also prefer the aesthetic appearance of rounded versus square corners.

Some massage table features can be added later, such as side extenders; however, most features cannot be changed once the table is in your hands, so choose your portable massage table wisely!

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

Learn the difference between different types of face cradles.

Aluminum Face Cradles offer strength and durability.

Face cradles can also increase client comfort and therapist access. Many clients prefer face cradles over breathe holes, which can feel somewhat claustrophobic. In addition, combining the use of a face cradle with a forward arm rest opens up the scapula area for easy access to those hard-to-reach back muscles.

There are a number of different headrest styles out on the market, including different types of frames and crescent pads.

Headrest Frames

The material used for a face cradle frame can be wood, plastic, metal, aluminum, or a combination of these materials. The preferred choice is an aluminum headrest because of its strength and light weight. A slightly cheaper but comparably strong option is a metal headrest. Both aluminum and metal offer strength, durability, and flexibility in positioning. They are typically constructed with a quality wooden head base.

A high-density plastic frame is strong and durable enough to withstand regular use and costs less than aluminum or metal. Wooden attachment outlets are also economical, but they are non-adjustable.

A fully adjustable, removable headrest gives you more options for client positioning than a fixed headrest. With a locking cam lever, it adjusts vertically and at any angle, including all the way down to move your headrest out of the way. Most removable headrests store inside the table for easy portability.

Headrest Pads

Headrest pads come in all colors. They are typically constructed with vinyl upholstery that varies in softness. The padding is usually small cell foam. Some face cradle pads come with memory foam for added comfort.

Most headrest pads attach with Velcro and are easily interchangeable. For extra comfort, you can cover them with a fleece pad or other special cover.

There are 3 basic types of end plates available for massage tables: Reiki end plates, standard end plates, and a combination of the two.

Reiki end panels increase therapist access.

Therapists who practice energy healing (such as Reiki) or do seated work (such as head or foot massage) need to be able to easily fit their legs under the massage table. In order to increase the stability of these higher-placed end plates, the end panels of most Reiki massage tables are two to three times thicker than standard end panels.

Standard end plates increase the stability of your massage table. They are usually thicker than Reiki end plates and they extend lower. This helps prevent the table from “rocking” under the force of vigorous massage techniques. The downside is that standard end plates hinder the therapist during seated work.

Since standard plates are attached lower on the table, there is not enough clearance to slide your knees underneath the table while doing seated work. For therapists who rarely sit while administering massage, this may not be a problem, but for Reiki masters and other therapists, access end panels are crucial to their work.

The half standard, half Reiki end panel option strives for a balance between leg room on one end of the table and added stability on the other end. The problem with this is that you can only do seated work on one end of the table (usually at the foot end)—at least without jamming your knees into the end panel. If you want to do seated work such as head massage or Reiki at the head end of the table, you’ll have to work around the standard end panel.

End plates are a permanent, structural component of your massage table, so choose your end plates carefully. There is no option to swap out the end plates for a different style after you have received your massage table.

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

Summary:

• For taller clients and for using the face portal, choose a longer table. For shorter clients and lighter weight, you may be able to get by with a shorter length.
• The best width depends on the size and comfort of both therapist and client. Typical width ranges from 27 to 32 inches.
• The best height is adjustable, usually within a 10-inch range. Choose a height range based on your own height.

Length

Massage Table with 77 Inch Extended Length

If you use a face portal instead of a face cradle, you may need a longer table to comfortably accommodate your clients. Extended length is also helpful for sports massage, where many of your clients may be tall athletes.

If you are looking for a lightweight portable table for mobile massage, a shorter length can help cut back on overall weight. The face cradle adds up to 12 inches in length to your table, so if you always use the face cradle for your clients, you may not need any extra length.

Width

The width you need depends on your size and body mechanics. The industry standard is about 30 inches wide, but the average width can range anywhere from 27 to 32 inches. Taller therapists sometimes prefer a wider width, while shorter therapists usually prefer a narrow or standard width. The more narrow the width, the easier it will be for the therapist to reach the client, but the table must be wide enough to fully support the client and provide the right amount of comfort.

If only a few of your clients require a wide width, consider adding side arm extenders to make your larger clients comfortable without sacrificing your back and legs. Don’t sacrifice your posture and ergonomics with a table that is too wide. You can only provide healing for your clients if you care for your own health and well-being first.

Height

Most massage tables can adjust to a range of different heights. The range is typically includes a 10-inch span, such as 24 to 34 inches. Make sure the table you buy will adjust to the right height for your working comfort. Give yourself a little extra room for error, as well. For example, if you set your table height at 28 inches, choose a massage table that adjusts to as low as 26 or 27 inches.

Related Posts

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

For an explanation on how to adjust your massage table to the correct height, see the post on How to Adjust Height for a Massage Table or watch our video on How to Set Up Your Massage Table.

Summary:

• Wood

– Aesthetically appealing
– Cost effective

• Aluminum

– Lightweight
– Higher strength to weight ratio than wood

Wood Massage Table

Wooden Massage Tables

Wood is the most popular material for massage tables in today’s market. This is partly because of its aesthetic appeal and partly because of its cost effective nature. Wood is a warm and natural material that appeals to the senses.

If you choose a wooden massage table, look for one that is constructed with North American hardwood. Canadian maple hardwood gives you the ideal balance of strength to weight.

Lightweight Aluminum Massage Table

Aluminum Massage Tables

Aluminum massage tables are perfect for mobile therapists. Although aluminum is lightweight, it provides the same quality of strength as wood; in fact, aluminum has a higher strength to weight ratio than wood. Aluminum massage tables also have a faster height adjustment system. Instead of unscrewing knobs, you can adjust the telescoping legs with the push of a button.

If you choose an aluminum massage table, look for one that is constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum and tubular legs. The cost of an aluminum massage table is sometimes a bit higher than for wood, but if you transport your table often, the extra expense may be worth it.

The Final Decision

Both wood and aluminum are reliable and stable materials for your massage table frame. The biggest difference between the two is weight. Wood weighs more than aluminum, so if you are looking for the lightest massage table possible, aluminum is your best option.

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

Aspire Massage Table with Ultra Soft Vinyl and
Memory Foam Pad

Even though most massage tables come with poly vinyl, not all vinyl materials are alike. Some are softer than others. These special vinyls feel like soft leather, giving your table an ultra-plush look and feel. Some vinyls are also higher quality. Premium vinyl will last longer than cheap vinyl, which cracks and fades over time.

Besides the standard vinyl that comes with your table, you can add special massage table covers to enhance the comfort of your clients and protect the vinyl. These covers include fleece pads, table warmers, memory foam pads, wool covers, fleece covers, and more.

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

Summary:

• High density and multi-density foam offer the most comfort and durability.
• Foam padding that is at least 2.5 inches and no more than 3 inches thick provides the right amount of comfort without adding too much weight to your massage table.

Foam Density

Massage table with 3-inch thick, high density foam.

Another type of massage table foam that is gaining popularity is memory foam. Some manufacturers offer a top layer of memory foam over a more durable density. You can also purchase a memory foam pad to lay on top of your massage table.

Foam Thickness

If you’re looking for the lightest weight massage table, 2 inches of foam provides comfortable support without adding any unnecessary weight to the table. Your clients will be more comfortable, however, with 2 ½ to 3 inches of padding.

Your client base and your modality can also impact the thickness of your massage table foam. If you specialize in sports massage, you may prefer a firmer table. If most of your clients are high-end clients who bask in the luxury aspect of massage, you will want to purchase a table with thick, 3-inch foam padding and the most comfortable density, such as memory foam.

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.