Massage couch size. Massage table (couch). Types and application. How to choose. DIY table: materials

It is generally accepted that classical massage, called Russian throughout the world, is one of the most natural, natural and effective means training of athletes, health improvement, prevention and treatment 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 the obvious relevance of this problem, until recently, the range of issues related to increasing the performance 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 labor of specialists in this profile. As our analysis of domestic and foreign textbooks and teaching aids on classical massage revealed, in most cases, the authors’ statements on this issue are of an unfounded subjective-empirical, often mutually exclusive nature, and moreover, often completely contradict modern views of biomechanics, requirements occupational health and ergonomics. This state of affairs, completely unacceptable for a scientific and educational discipline, prompted us to undertake our own comprehensive research, the purpose of which is to develop, substantiate and introduce into the pedagogical process and practical sphere of massage extremely accurate, effective and accessible recommendations for maintaining health and increasing performance massage therapists

The optimally adjusted one, which is the main element of equipment for Russian massage rooms, plays a decisive role in the ergonomics of the massage therapist’s workplace. The correct adjustment of its size largely determines the working conditions of the massage therapist, i.e. will his working posture be ergonomically rational and functionally comfortable, or, on the contrary, forced, leading to rapid fatigue. We have conducted a critical analysis of a large number of textbooks and manuals on classical massage - at present, a whole spectrum simultaneously coexists, 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 arms are extremely rare, and they often contradict the principles and standards of ergonomics and occupational hygiene.

As is 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 postures that are completely different in design, some of which can be even based on formal characteristics (Gorshkov S.I., 1979; Strelkov Yu.K., 2003) classified as forced, inconvenient. And finally, there is an Industry Safety Standard for physical therapy departments and rooms - OST 42-21-16-86 SSBT, which clearly defines that the height of the massage table should be 80 cm, length 1.95-2.00 m, width 0.65 cm, the ergonomic justification for which we were unable to find in the available literature.
In the process of research conducted on the basis of the Russian state university physical culture, Sports and Tourism (Moscow), we studied 4 variants of the “standing” working posture, 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) – table at the level of the knee joints (Fig. 2-a);
- Working Pose 2 (RP-2) – table at the level of the finger point, i.e. the hand is freely lowered, the fingers are fully straightened and touch the bed of the table (Fig. 2-b);
- Working Pose 3 (RP-3) – 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 table bed (Fig. 2-c);
- Working Pose 4 (RP-4) – table at the level of the styloid process of the radius (Fig. 2-d).
Thus, we 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 method of A.A. Biryukova (2006). Using the multifunctional computer electrophysiological complex “I-330-C2+” (J+J Engineering, USA), we recorded: heart rate (HR), depth and frequency of breathing, bioelectrical activity of the muscles directly involved in maintaining working postures (sacrospinous , gluteus maximus, biceps femoris, gastrocnemius, trapezius, deltoid, biceps femur). At the same time, goniometric and photogoniometric measurements, psychophysiological testing and a questionnaire survey of subjects, as well as pedagogical observation were carried out. In total (to date), more than 150 subjects from among students and participants of massage courses at the Russian State University of Physical Culture and Technology took part in the research, 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 to perform Russian classical massage, the specialist worked in RP-2 (table height at the level of the finger point) and RP-3 (table height at the level of the phalangeal point), in which the torso tilt did not exceed 15-20° (Fig. 3). Comparative analysis showed that the bioelectrical activity of muscles in RP-2, -3 had the smallest differences from the data recorded in a calm, comfortable “standing” position (Fig. 4).

Rice. 4. The amplitude of bioelectrical activity of some skeletal muscles when working in an optimal position 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, as evidenced by (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 fixing 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 option for mobilizing external respiration reserves during cyclic physical work (Fig. 5).

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

The 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, forming a single ensemble with it - a dynamic stereotype.
With the beginning of the massage, 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 (physically) comfortable, but also as the most convenient for performing massage techniques. Photogoniometric measurements showed that the subjective comfort of performing techniques noted by massage therapists has a well-defined biomechanical foundation.
Firstly, in these working poses a biomechanically favorable spatial arrangement of the specialist’s torso, the links of his arms and the massaged area was created relative to each other. The shoulder-forearm-hand of the massage therapist and the massaged area were arranged in descending order downwards. On average, the angle of flexion in the shoulder joint (measured in accordance with the international methodology - SFTR) was 20-25°, shoulder abduction from the body did not exceed 15-20°, elbow flexion 20-30° (Fig. 6).

Rice. 6. The relative position of the links of the biokinematic chain of the torso-shoulder-forearm-hand of the massage therapist in the optimal working position.

As shown by the results of electromyography, such a mutual position required optimal costs muscle energy to hold the arms in the working position and made it possible to fully relax the muscles that are not involved in performing the entire technique or its individual phases (Fig. 7).

Rice. 7. Electromyograms when a massage therapist performs a “double circular kneading”: t – period of performing one pass of a “double circular kneading”. The main working movement “forward movement of the arm” is accomplished due to the activity of the triceps brachii. Activity of the biceps brachii is required only to return the arm to its original position.

To use a term from labor physiology, working muscles had micro-pauses of rest, which significantly delayed the onset of their local fatigue.
Secondly, at an optimal table height, the massage therapist’s hand, 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 at the wrist joint, within 20-30° (Fig. 8).

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

Such synkinesis is deeply recorded in the central nervous system a person, and is biologically expedient, since it directs the plane of the palm against the object to be captured. The strength of the hand grips reaches its maximum values ​​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 flexion position, then the mobility of the fingers in the interphalangeal joints significantly worsens, and the effective area and strength of most types of grips decreases (Aruin A.S., Zatsiorsky V.M., 1989 ; Mateev I.B., Bankov S.D., 1981). It is on this biomechanical pattern that most techniques for disarming the enemy in various martial arts are based. In addition, as studies by A.S. have shown. Aruina and V.M. Zatsiorsky (1989), G.N. Mazunina et al. (1967), Yu.V. Moikina et al. (1987), with long work with excessive flexion or extension of the hand, the risk of developing occupationally-related pathological processes in various anatomical structures of the hand and forearm sharply increases: soft tissues, articular surfaces, ligaments and tendons.
The essence of performing ordinary, double ordinary, double ring kneading, double bar - the most technically complex types of Russian massage techniques and at the same time occupying from 60 to 80% of the total session time, lies in grasping 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 performing the above types of kneading is nothing more than repeated 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 advantageous, which in many ways and predetermined subjective convenience and good technique for performing most techniques.

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

Rice. eleven. General form working position – 4, 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 subjects’ torso was almost vertical (inclination less than 10°), but the arms were constantly in a forced elevated position.

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

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

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

Keeping the arms in a raised 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 similar indicators in RP-2, -3, i.e. breathing was shallow and rapid (Fig. 14).

Rice. Fig. 14. Pneumogram when performing 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 thanks 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 observed during inhalation in the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, and exhalation is performed largely passively, due to the elastic forces that arise when the chest and lungs expand during inhalation. With significant physical activity, auxiliary respiratory muscles come into play - on inhalation, the trapezius and rhomboids, pectoralis major and minor, sternocleidomastoid, back extensors and some others, and on exhalation, the abdominal muscles. 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, double and even triple load on these muscles became a very significant factor limiting lung ventilation.
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 value was 140±11 beats/min.

Rice. 15. Zones of localization of discomfort sensations (shaded with a grid) when 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 position as tiring (Fig. 15) and inconvenient for performing most types of techniques, primarily various types of kneading, which was also, in the most direct way, related to the biomechanical patterns we discussed above.
Firstly, keeping the arms in a constantly raised position did not allow the large muscles of the arms: the biceps and triceps brachii to fully relax in micropauses, which is quite contrastingly seen when comparing the electromyograms recorded in RP-2 (Fig. 7, a) and RP- 4 (Fig. 7,b).
Secondly, photogoniometric measurements revealed that when performing various types of kneading in RP-4, the hand in relation to the forearm was in a neutral or even slightly bent position of 5-10° (Fig. 12), which worsened the mobility of the finger joints and strength indicators of distal muscles.

Rice. 16. General view of the working position – 1, table at the level of the massage therapist’s knee joints.

The most irrational of all the modeled working postures was RP-1 (table height at the level of the knee joints), in which the torso tilt 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 a correct understanding by massage therapists of the essence of this ergonomic norm is an extremely important condition for adequate self-control during work and modeling the most comfortable and safe conditions labor, so we will consider this issue in more detail.
With relatively small inclinations of the torso 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 rectus abdominis) and abdomen (rectus abdominis and its synergists) (Fig. 17).

Rice. 17. The spinal motion segment of a vertically standing person is 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 muscle, 2 - rectifier spinae muscle, 3 - quadratus lumbar muscle, 4 – straight abdominal m., 5 – oblique abdominal m.

In this case, the stability and stability of the spine is ensured not only with the help of intervertebral discs, joints and a fairly powerful ligamentous apparatus, but also due to the activity of skeletal muscles. According to the famous 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 element, 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 body is tilted 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) transferred by the lumbar intervertebral discs, depending on the person’s posture (according to Slynchev P. 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 designed for long-term performance of such a supporting function. Over time, such mechanical impact can cause tissue overstrain syndrome, which manifests itself in compensatory compaction, adhesion, and fibrosis of the cartilaginous and ligamentous structures of the spine. First of all, the intervertebral discs suffer, which lose their elastic and shock-absorbing properties, microdamages accumulate in them, creating conditions for deformation and subsequent violation of their integrity. It should be taken into account that “turning off” the back and abdominal muscles from the process of stabilizing the posture only concerns their support of the spine and does not lead to a reduction in the load on the skeletal muscles themselves. On the contrary, with body tilts exceeding 15-20°, the load on the muscular system increases sharply (Aruin A.S., Zatsiorsky V.M., 1988; Epifanov V.A., 2004; Gorshkov S.I., 1979; Levit K. et al., 1993), which was confirmed by our own studies.

Rice. 19. The amplitude of bioelectrical activity of some skeletal muscles when working in an optimal position and working position is 1.

Analysis of electromyograms showed (Fig. 19) that the amplitude of the bioelectric 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 are characteristic of the electromyographic picture of pronounced deep fatigue during static efforts (Fig. 20).

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

The continuous increase in the amplitude of the bioelectrical activity of the sacrospinalis muscle (phase of “compensated fatigue”), which continued during the first 30 minutes of massage, was then replaced by a sharp decrease in the last third of the session (phase of “decompensated fatigue”). In parallel with this, there was an increase in the activity of the gluteus maximus and biceps femoris muscles, which initially played an auxiliary role in maintaining an inclined position of the body and gradually took on the main load. Visually, this process manifested itself as a transformation of posture. At the beginning, despite the deep tilt, the contour of the back was quite even, and the legs were slightly bent at the knees and hip joints. With the development of muscle fatigue, i.e. As the activity of the sacrospinalis muscle decreased, the contour of the back became more and more rounded, and the legs almost completely straightened. 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 their hands or knees, involuntarily trying to at least temporarily reduce the load on the muscles. Significant tension in the muscles responsible for maintaining a working posture was subjectively assessed by the subjects as a feeling of fatigue, numbness, aching, burning and pain in the lower back, buttocks and thighs (Fig. 21).

Rice. 21. Zones of localization of discomfort 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 massage 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 made it difficult for the external respiration apparatus to operate. The pneumogram showed that in RP-1 the breathing of the subjects was not only shallow and rapid (the depth of breathing is 52% less, the respiratory rate is 42% higher than similar indicators in RP-2, -3), but also irregular, with delays of 4- 6 seconds (Fig. 22).

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

However, unlike RP-4, the main role in complicating the operation of the external respiration apparatus was played not by the forced position of the arms, but by excessive flexion of the torso, which led to limited mobility of the ribs and mechanical pressure on the diaphragm of the abdominal organs.
At the same time as the above, it is necessary to take into account that the bent position of the torso also leads to compression of the abdominal and pelvic organs, as well as to obstruction of 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 among massage therapists, long-term 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., most suitable for a given person) height of the massage table: the specialist needs to stand close to its edge, the feet and knees of fully straightened legs should touch each other friend, keep your torso straight, turn your shoulders, lower your arms freely (Fig. 23).

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

The height of the table is within optimal limits if its surface is located in the range limited by the following anthropometric points (landmarks): below - finger point (tip of the nail phalanx of the 3rd finger), above - phalangeal point (back side of the middle phalanges of the fingers clenched into a fist) .
In accordance with the most current data at the moment on the static and dynamic anthropometric signs of the human body of the inhabitants 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 (height of the finger point above the floor - 66 cm, phalangeal point - 77 cm), and women - 163 cm (height of the finger point above the floor - 63 cm, phalangeal point - 73 cm ). Based on this information, focused on Russian market Manufacturers of specialized furniture for massage rooms must produce massage tables, the height of which can be adjusted no less than in the range of 60-80 cm. If this condition is met, more than 90% of massage therapists (men and women) will have the opportunity to work in optimal conditions.
We would like to draw the special attention of all competent specialists to the need to make ergonomically sound 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.
To more accurately adjust the table height, it is advisable to be guided by the following criteria.

Rice. 24. Options for adjusting the height of the table depending on the transverse sagittal dimensions of the massaged body: a – table at the level of the finger point (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 high intensity (i.e. depth) of impact on tissue: 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 lower than the general center of gravity of the massage therapist’s body, which allows increasing the intensity of the impact not only by increasing muscle effort, but also through the effective use of weight and inertia of torso movement. It is important that in this case the specialist does not lose balance (i.e. does not fall on the patient) and can quite accurately control the applied efforts and intensity of the impact.

Rice. 25. When massaging a child whose body size is much smaller than that 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 the session does not involve performing 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 advisable to choose the height of the table at the level of the phalangeal point so that the tilt of the body is minimal.
Another important ergonomic parameter of a 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 torso tilt and outstretched arms, in fact, reducing to zero all efforts to optimize the work poses due to precise adjustment of the table height (Fig. 26).

Rice. 26. Despite the precisely adjusted height of the table, its overly 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 table bed a complex concave shape or providing transformable, removable palm rests and armrests.
Based on the results of our own research, practical experience work, 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 will be of interest to managers of various institutions and organizations (medical, health, sports, SPA industry and beauty salons) that provide massage services, as well as for manufacturers of massage equipment and furniture .

Table No. 1.

The art of massage has existed and developed for a long time. Highlight different kinds this manipulation, which brings not only benefit, but also pleasure. To implement some types you need to use special devices and tools, including a massage table. In fact, there is nothing difficult about making it yourself.

To create the most comfortable massage table, with your own hands, it is recommended to follow the instructions below:

How to make a massage table?

Manufacturing massage tables involves a number of stages:

1. Creating a countertop that is most conveniently made based on a pair plywood sheets(each of them must have dimensions of 600x900 mm). Cut out the blanks using an electric jigsaw to make the task easier. Clean the end elements sandpaper or a grinding machine.
2. On one part, prepared in advance, outline the contours and make an oval-shaped hole.
3. Make a frame for the future table by cutting 4 blanks (length - 900 m) and 4 more products (length 560 mm) from wooden blocks. Combine the parts so that you end up with a pair of frames with parameters of 600 by 900 millimeters, if you take measurements along the outer part of the edge. Recesses for fasteners should have a depth of two (maximum three) millimeters. You need to worry about doing them in advance, otherwise there is a high risk that the timber will crack. After assembling the frame, attach the covers to it using either nails or self-tapping screws.
4. Upholster both parts of the tabletop. This will allow us to prepare furniture that is as comfortable as possible for the client. First you need to apply a layer of adhesive to the workpiece, and then lay a couple of foam plates on top. Once the glue has dried a little, trim off the excess material and cut out an oval for the head. When this work is completed, lay the leather covering on the foam rubber and stretch it well, folding the edges over the frame. Attach the material to the beam using a stapler. Form corners while trying to avoid creases. Be sure to leave room for loops.
5. When making furniture, don't forget about the legs. When performing this work, you will need two timbers, from which you should cut a couple of sets of blanks, and each set should include 6 timbers. Assemble the first two supports and connect the individual components using self-tapping screws. Remove the bottom ends of the workpieces, using circular saw or electric jigsaw. Combine the other pair of supports by making notches suitable tool and helping with a chisel. Cut the end elements located at the top at an angle of 30º. Connect pairs of supports special loops(they can be fixed using self-tapping screws). If you follow all the rules, you will end up with several sets of legs that are identical to each other.

If you do not understand any points, then you can find drawings on this site, and then make or repair the furniture that massage therapists need to perform their duties. Beginners should give preference to more simple models, easy to perform.

How to assemble a folding massage table with your own hands?

1 2 3

If you decide to make the chosen option, mark lines on the inside of the base for installing loops. Attach the fasteners to the folding massage table using self-tapping screws, combining the supports and frames. Screw it in fastener into the hole made earlier. Make sure there are no distortions, and then install the side screws. Connect the two halves of the furniture (unless we are talking about making a three-section table out of wood). Screw the hinges using self-zeros, due to which both parts will fold together without much difficulty.

The graphic diagram will be useful to a person who makes furniture with his own hands. If you consider yourself an experienced craftsman, you can create a hand massage table with adjustable legs or repair massage tables.
The task seems overwhelming, then you can go to a website that sells specialized products and choose a portable massage table. It is worth getting information from consultants about how to choose a massage table.

Which massage table is better? Only a massage specialist or researchers at the rehabilitation center for exercise therapy and massage can answer this question correctly.

Elena, massage therapist at the Valeria center. Work experience 15 years.

“A professional massage table should be convenient not only for the specialist, but also for the client, so you need to have a good understanding of what types of massage will be practiced and the needs of the client: type of massage (children, adults, etc.), diseases, duration of the procedure. The first thing you need to pay attention to is:

• Strength and stability of the structure ( portable tables comfortable, but their weight should not be too light);
• Weight and dimensions (it is important to understand whether the table will move and move, the optimal weight is 13-15 kg);
• Comfortable rest for the arms (the armrests should be rotated and moved forward of the table - it is the armrests that create the image and feeling of comfort)
• Unimportant parameters: table bendability (it’s easier to use bolsters and pillows)”;
• In and d massage (for classic massage, 1-2 section massage couches with a medium-hard surface are suitable).

Height, width and length of the massage table

• Height. Usually they choose from 50 to 80 cm according to their height. So for a height of 170-180 cm, a model with a height of 70-80 cm is suitable. Roughly speaking, subtract 100 cm from the height and get the desired height of the couch. You can immediately order a model of the required dimensions and dimensions from the manufacturer, or you can actually file the legs.

According to research by Professor of the Department of Exercise Therapy, Massage and Rehabilitation Biryukov A.A. and Savina D.N. The height of the massage table should be at the level of the phalangeal or finger point, and the tilt of the body should not exceed 15-20 cm - this requires the correct width - 55-65 cm.

IN modern models you can change the height - this function most likely will not be useful, because it can only be changed before the massage. It is better to immediately select a table that suits the height of the massage therapist. Another question is, if specialists can quit, then height adjustment is a necessary parameter.

• Width. In order not to reach for the client and not overstrain your back, it is better to choose a table no more than 70 cm wide. But if the massage table is intended for athletes, it can be a little wider - since the client’s build must also be taken into account. The optimal width is from 55 to 65 cm. The picture clearly shows the working position relative to the table.
• D Lina. From 170 to 190 cm – You can’t go wrong if you choose a length of 2 meters with a headrest. In general, massage tables with headrests are more versatile because they fold smaller. It’s great if you can raise the level of the headrest higher than the table, this creates comfort for women with large breasts and large clients.

Purpose of the massage table and types

When choosing, it is better to immediately decide on the purpose and type of massage couch. They are mainly divided into stationary and portable and differ in the presence or absence additional options and functions (headrest, armrests, height adjustment, bendability, with additional functions such as the electric drive and the material from which the frame and upholstery are made). By and large, the simplest, durable design correctly selected in height, width and length will completely satisfy almost any client; if you need to create an image, then you can choose models with bells and whistles. The feeling of greater comfort is created primarily by the armrests and the adjustable headrest.

• P A portable table is necessary for massage therapists working at home. A folding massage table is convenient at home when clients sometimes come to the house, and at other times it can be folded and put away. This is especially true for osteopaths who often conduct consultations at home. It’s convenient when it has wheels - suddenly you want to put it in another place in the room.
• A professional massage table should be comfortable for the client and the massage therapist. In a salon or massage center it can be stationary - but models with wheels are convenient in any case, as they make it easier to move.
• M Assemblage tables with electric drives weigh a lot, so you need to purchase them somewhere where they can be placed permanently, although some models have wheels.

An electric massage table is best if the motor is quiet and moves up and down quickly.

• D a wooden massage table can last as long as with metal frame, it is important that there are no plastic parts in it.

Accessories for massage couches: which ones to choose?

• P The sheets can be either disposable or creating a massage effect - terry. It is more convenient to buy sheets in a roll.

When choosing disposable sheets for massage, you need to consider what additional products are used during massage. So, there are oil-waterproof sheets made of laminated spunbond; if there are high requirements for cleanliness, it is better to use SMS fabric made of composite, it has high antibacterial properties (used in the production of diapers).

• WITH device for a massage table. This accessory must meet two basic requirements - easy to wash and have wheels.
• The cover can be either disposable or reusable, but it is most convenient to have an elastic band with fasteners.
• Va It is better to purchase a massage table face together with the table.

Whether you are a beginner or an expert in the field of massage, the right massage table is the key to successful work. The workplace of any master must meet certain requirements that contribute to comfortable work. An ordinary daybed will not work because it often lacks a headrest with a hole for the face. Because of this, a person has to lie in one position for an hour with his head turned to the side, and after the session he experiences discomfort from a stiff neck. The client should always be comfortable, because... The comfort and quality of the master’s work is a guarantee that a person will seek the services of a massage therapist from you in the future. Therefore, you need to know how to choose a professional massage table.

Stationary tables quite large. Due to their heavy weight, they are difficult to move, so this type of equipment is used more often in specialized clinics and salons. As standard, stationary tables have a comfortable headrest, the position of which can be changed depending on the wishes of the visitor and the area chosen for massage. This work equipment is of high quality, because... made from solid wood and durable metals, which explains the high cost.

Folding tables are quite popular among private massage therapists and those who receive massages at home. This choice is based on the low cost of the model and ease of transportation. Working device this species is comparatively small sizes(no more than 20 kg) and have a mechanism that allows them to fold in a certain way. The position and height of the legs, which also fold out, can be adjusted, so folding table will stand firmly even on rough surfaces. Tables that fold and unfold are made of inexpensive metals and wood of average quality.

More simple option portable design is a massage couch. They are lightweight, inexpensive and do not contain additional mechanisms. Some models can be folded in half.

Representatives of these categories of working equipment can be used for any type of massage.

Advantages

Mostly, buyers choose folding massage tables; this is convenient for massage therapists who travel to their homes. The main advantages of a folding workplace:

• Thanks to the durable aluminum support, the device can withstand a weight of more than 200 kg;
• Aluminum is resistant to corrosion damage;
• Wooden support is sustainable and more environmentally friendly;
• The thin coating helps reduce the weight of the device;
• Has the ability to fold compactly;
• Can be installed anywhere;
• The main sections are adjustable as needed;
• The set contains removable armrests and a headrest with a plug for the hole under the head;
• They have a warranty card.

To work in a humid environment, a special folding model made of bamboo was created to avoid rapid damage to the equipment.

When a specialist has a large flow of clients, which often happens in massage parlors, it is better to give preference to stationary tables, because:

• Withstands weight up to 1000 kg;
• Have a large number of sections, due to which the effect of the massage increases;
• There is a holder for massage and cleaning products;
• The structure is lifted using a foot pedal, which is convenient to use;
• There is a wide variety of designs.

There are massage tables for pregnant women and obese people. It is also possible to purchase children's massage seats.

Possible problems

When choosing a massage table, buyers face several problems. Each category has its own list of disadvantages. Folding models are characterized by the following weaknesses:

• Cable frames are unstable under heavy loads. If the weight transfer is unsuccessful, the table may fold in half.
• These frames prevent the specialist from moving freely during work.
• The absence of a plug in the face hole can cause discomfort for the client.
• Any extra sections increase the weight of the device and make the structure less stable.
• 20-kilogram couches are difficult to carry, and 12-kilogram couches indicate poor quality of construction and its unreliability.
• Too wide dimensions make transporting the table more problematic.
• Low quality upholstery brings discomfort to the client. Cheap materials may cause the patient to sweat or feel cold.
• Multi-knot adjustable legs quickly lose reliability and are prone to breakage.
• Not suitable for large flows of people - materials quickly wear out and deteriorate.

Using stationary structures the following problems occur:

• Often there is no mechanism responsible for lifting.
• If lifting device is present, then without an electric motor, which complicates the work of the master.
• Most models do not have wheels, which makes moving the table a difficult task.

For massage parlors with a large number of visitors, it is better to purchase several tables of each type.

Which one is better?

Portable massage table good quality must have:

• Small surface width;
• Stable metal frame;
• Adjustable legs with one knot;
• High quality upholstery;
• Headrest with plug;
• Only the main sections without frills;
• Carrying case.

When choosing stationary massage equipment, pay attention to the following:

• The table surface should not be wide;
• There must be a stable X-frame with an electric motor for convenient adjustment of the lifting height;
• The headrest must have an adjustment mechanism;
• The covering on the massage table must be of high quality;
• There must be wheels on the legs to be able to change the position of the table;
• There must be a stand for disposable diapers and massage products.

It is better to choose stationary equipment with a large number of sections and an electric drive for ergonomics.

How to choose a massage table

The main criteria for choosing equipment for massage are: specifications and properties during operation.

First you need to decide where you will receive your visitors. If you are going to take an official position in a specialized hospital, then it is better to give preference to inpatient models. Folding models are suitable for frequent practice.

Next, pay attention to the upholstery material. The client will be most comfortable on soft fabric or leather upholstery with cotton blends. On such a surface, bulges or folds formed during massage are least felt.

It is better to choose a filler of medium hardness. So that the visitor does not fall into the depths of the massage surface and does not feel painful sensations from the filler during intensive work of the specialist.

It is equally important to familiarize yourself with the stability parameter. Stationary tables are made of durable steel or combined design, facilitating good fixation of equipment. When purchasing folding models, you should check the support. The table should not wobble or creak when impacted.

It is also necessary to familiarize yourself with the list of manufacturers and the characteristics of their products. This is necessary in order not to fall for the tricks of some sellers who offer to purchase low-quality models, passing them off as products of expensive foreign companies. The package must include a warranty card and a certificate stating that the equipment is intended for medical purposes.

Characteristics to consider when choosing

Massage devices have several important criteria that should be considered when purchasing.

The width of the table surface should be in the range of 50-80 cm. The standard width is about 75 cm. This is due to the fact that when large sizes tabletops, the massage therapist will experience inconvenience in work, which will affect the quality of the massage. The advantage of narrow massage tables is the presence of adjustable armrests.

The range in which the length of the tabletop varies is 180-220 cm. The most optimal size- 185 cm, because The client must fit on the table at full height.

The height parameter, which affects the convenience and quality of the massage therapist’s work, should be in the range from 55 to 85 cm.

There are 3 types of mechanisms that adjust the legs of the massage table:

• Telescopic legs are mounted on tables with a steel frame. A special button is used to select the height.
• To tables with wooden frame Screw-on legs are attached.
• Stationary massage structures are equipped with a hydraulic lift height adjustment system.

Massage tables come in the shape of a rectangle or hourglass. The latter are more convenient, because During the procedure, they allow you to get closer to the client at the distance required by the specialist.

The more complex the table structure, the more sections it has. Most models have no more than 3 sections. The simplest version of the table is a single-section one. It has no moving parts. There are also two-section models equipped with lifting mechanism in the headrest or on the leg side. The three-section table provides a division of the surface into two moving parts and an adjustable headrest. Such equipment helps to take the positions necessary for massage. But their cost is much higher.

When purchasing a device, you should pay attention to the load capacity parameter. Basically, all massage devices can withstand 200 kg. But you should not sit on or jump off the tabletop too quickly. This can lead to loose legs and rapid equipment failure.

Movement is also very important. When the massage table is heavy enough, wheels on legs are needed to make transporting the equipment easier.

In stationary models, it is necessary to have additional accessories in the form of a cabinet or holder on which massage oils, pillows, bolsters and disposable sheets will be stored.

A warranty card for medical equipment is required. Basically, the warranty is issued by the manufacturer for 3 years from the date of purchase of the product. If a malfunction of the device occurs during the warranty period, the manufacturer is obliged, at the company's expense, to ensure the replacement of non-working parts or the entire structure. On renovation work The product is accepted only in packaging from the manufacturer if the buyer provides a warranty card. All repairs after the expiration of the period indicated in the warranty card are paid by the buyer. Soft parts are not covered by the warranty. If you attempt to repair the mechanism yourself, the warranty becomes void.

Manufacturers

Massage tables are manufactured by domestic and foreign companies. Manufacturers of tables are guided by different approaches to the manufacture of goods. Today, models of massage devices combine excellent quality and relatively low cost.

Prestigious beauty salons and massage complexes can afford equipment from Italian manufacturer Anatomico, which have been tested by the best doctors throughout the country. The table has a discreet, simple design. It is made of an aluminum frame in combination with wood. The upholstery is made of premium material.

The domestic manufacturer DFC, in tandem with Chinese colleagues, is working on the production of specialized equipment for sports and medical complexes. Functional folding devices combine quality materials And stylish design with a variety of colors.

The Finnish company FysioTech specializes in the manufacture of equipment for physiotherapists' offices. Thanks to technology laser cutting the product body is more stable. Manufacturers provide a 10-year warranty when purchasing their products.

The American manufacturer USMedica produces equipment that improves the physical and psychological condition of the body. Used in development modern technologies and designs. The company delivers the goods in the shortest period of time.

The Japanese company Yamaguchi develops massage equipment and cosmetology devices that have fashion design and are equipped with a variety of electronic devices. They also differ in that they are easy to wash, and delivery is carried out at the expense of the company.

Gelioks massage products from Russian manufacturer has built-in electric motors from German partners. Load capacity is 800 kg. The upholstery is made of eco-leather from Vowalon.

Massage tables are an integral part of the successful and high-quality work of every specialist. The main parameters that you should pay attention to when purchasing massage equipment are the width and length of the table top, the presence of additional sections and accessories, the possibility of transportation, the presence of a warranty card and the manufacturer's company.

How long has the art of massage existed? Probably, back in the Stone Age, some healer in a fox skin (earned it!) kneaded the backs of his fellow tribesmen. Have you also mastered basic manipulations and even received your massage therapist qualifications? It's time to reach a new level and earn money! It is true that patients of the twenty-first century want to undergo procedures in comfortable conditions. It’s too early for a beginner to buy expensive equipment, but making a massage table with your own hands is just right. It is better if it is foldable: most sufferers will have to go to their homes.

We offer instructions for making such a massage table

• The main requirement for a massage table is that a person of any size should be able to 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 when working.
• The massage table must be strong and withstand a minimum load of up to 250 kg. Specialists know what efforts need to be made for the treatment to be effective - the weak design will not withstand a couple of sessions. By the way, patient safety should also be remembered. The table frame is usually made of lightweight metal or hard rocks tree. The average weight of the product is about 15-20 kg.
• The stock must be ergonomic. If the patient is in an uncomfortable position and 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 necessity.
• The quality of the filler is of great importance. The best option in our case we will use high-density foam rubber or polyurethane. Good results gives mixed filler.

Organizational stage of work

The model you see in the picture seems complicated at first glance. In fact, the design is simple, reliable, and also easily folds and fits in 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 hinges 18x50 mm – 14 pcs.
• Screws 15 mm long.
• Self-tapping screws 20, 35, 45 mm long.
• PVA glue.
• Sandpaper.
• Handle, clasp.

Set of tools for work

• Circular saw with bevel blade.
• Hacksaw.
• Drill with a set of drills.
• Screwdriver.
• Hammer, chisel.
• Fine-toothed carpenter's saw.
• Jigsaw.
• Mechanical stapler and staples for it.
• Paper cutter.
• Tape measure, ruler, square, pencil.

Instructions for making a massage table

Assembling the massage table top

We will begin to solve the problem of how to make a massage table with our own hands by making the tabletop. We mark segments measuring 600x900 mm on two pieces of plywood. We cut out the blanks with a jigsaw. We clean the ends emery cloth, wrapped around a wooden block of a suitable shape. If there Sander, better.

On one of the blanks we draw and cut out an oval hole for the face, measuring 180x110 mm. The curves can be drawn out using a plate, a pan lid - whatever the radius is suitable.

Drawings of two halves of the tabletop

Next comes the frame for the tabletop. We cut out four sections of 900 mm in length from a 20x50 mm timber, and four – 560 mm in length. We connect the blanks with 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 timber under the screws may crack. Having assembled the frames, we screw 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 a patient, this proverb is unfair in relation to our product. So, apply a layer of glue to the tabletop and place two sheets of foam rubber on top. We wait until the glue dries and trim off the excess foam along the edges. Carefully cut out an oval for the face.

Table top upholstery

Now we lay artificial leather on the foam rubber. While stretching the material, we wrap the edges over the frame. We aim the stapler at the beam, first at the long sides, then at the short ones, keeping a step of 10 mm. After this, we form the corners, trying to avoid noticeable folds. On one of the short sides we leave room for loops.

Making table legs

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

We assemble the first two supports (parts A). To do this, we fasten the three parts together with an overlap using self-tapping screws. We cut the lower ends of the long pieces at an angle of 41 degrees. If it is not possible to maintain such precision, we cut it at a more obtuse angle, as 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 (parts B) halfway through the tree, selecting the grooves using a saw and chisel. We cut off 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 onto piano hinges, securing them with self-tapping screws. We should end up with two identical sets of legs. We immediately check them for foldability - no distortions are allowed.

Assembling supports A with supports B

Assembling the massage table

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

We attach the supports to the tabletop frames

We connect the two halves of the table, also with hinges located at a short distance from the ends of the lids. We screw the hinges onto the self-tapping screws so that the halves fold easily.

We connect the two halves of the massage table with hinges

Making spacers

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. This value is approximate; you can decide on the length as you go. The point here is that the shorter the spacer, the higher the table. We screw the ends of the element to the short sides of the legs using the same loops and screws.

Diagram and photograph of the massage table spacer

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

Looking at such an image item, you 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 looked at the creation of your own hands, you can safely begin private practice.