What’s Special About a Massage Table?

A massage table is for massage therapy and is designed as such. It’s an important tool for massage therapists that comes in many shapes and sizes.

Interestingly, the term, ‘massage table,’ emerged during the 1920s. Previously, massage tables were often called ‘couches.’ Even earlier than that, they were called simply ‘slabs.’ The Romans and the Greek were the first to actively use a device specifically for massage. These early civilizations recognized the benefits that lay within massage therapy.

In the Victorian era, couches were used to perform massage. These early massage tables were padded and more comfortable than your standard doctor’s office table.

Then, the portable massage table was invented in the 1930s. Typically, it was made of wood with padding and a vinyl cover. Yet, these early variations didn’t quite meet the standards that have been set today. They didn’t have face hole, which could cause neck strain or pain.

The modern massage table is designed with ergonomics in mind. There’s various padding, widths, face placements, and more. Often, the type selected depends on the type of massage being performed. For instance, there are special massage tables specifically for pregnant women.

Further, massage tables may be portable or stationary – depending on their purpose. If the massage therapist doesn’t have a homebase or travels to various events for massage, a portable massage table makes more sense. Within the confines of a massage clinic, like Athlete’s Choice Massage, you’ll likely find a stationary massage table.