Massage Therapy Industry's Growing Need for Massage Tables

Massage therapy is the most widely used type of complementary and alternative medicine in hospitals across the USA, growing in acceptance and popularity as more people learn and become aware of the value of this ancient health practice. In the most recent data available, there were 140 million visits for massage therapy in 2004, generating revenue of $12 billion. It is estimated that in 2009, the massage therapy industry generated about $22 billion. About 25% of American adults received a massage at least once between 2008 and 2009. Employment for massage therapists is expected to rise by 19% (higher than the national average for all occupations) between 2008 and 2018, and there are an estimated 130,000 jobs currently held by massage therapists. There are probably around 320,000 massage therapists and students in the USA.

As demand for massage services grows, new openings for massage therapists will be created. Spas employ a large number of massage therapists and there were approximately 15,500 spas in the USA in 2007, with trends indicating continued growth. Massage also offers specific and varied benefits to particular groups of people, such as workplaces trying to distinguish themselves as employee-friendly, providing professional in-office chair massage as a popular on-the-job benefit. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are also finding benefits from massage with their older citizens showing increased energy levels and reduced health problems after regular massage therapy. And as an increasing number of states demand licensing requirements and standards for therapists, the practice of massage becomes more respected and accepted by a larger number of people.

Massage therapy is a very physically demanding profession and therapists can easily succumb to injury if proper techniques and equipment are not used. Repetitive motion injuries, fatigue from extended standing, and back strains are the most common. These risks can be avoided by learning and practicing good techniques, proper spacing of time between sessions for rest, and using the right massage table or chair, at the right height for you. The therapist's best choice will be determined by several factors, including what kind of practice is planned.

If the plan includes work in one central location, such as private practice or a permanent office at a facility, a stationary massage table is a great choice. The convertible and forward-thinking Oakworks Cabana Lounger can be transformed from a lounger to a bench with an optional backrest, to a chaise with backrest, to a full size adjustable height massage table with an optional face cradle.  This is the perfect table for spas and covered outside locations. For massage therapists who perform varied forms of therapeutic massage for different clients, the Oakworks Celesta Lift Spa Table is an ideal choice for quick, easy and accurate positioning. The 15 degree tilt in either direction with manual adjustments at both knee and back rests provide the therapist with the means to offer a wide range of services, while also enhancing client comfort. If the massage practice also includes spa treatments such as pedicures and manicures, the Oakworks Clodagh Libra Spa Table has got it covered. Featuring a high quality and full sized Sanijet® pedi-spa, this table will convert from a pedi-spa to a massage table in seconds. Options such as manicure arm rests and aromatherapy lowered arm rest shelves can also be added to handle the rigors of a high volume spa and any type of treatment.

If the plan is to offer massage in people's homes, then a portable, lightweight table is much more appropriate. Weighing in at just 25 to 29 pounds, depending on add-on accessories, the Oakworks Aurora Portable Massage Table is the perfect first table for any massage student, and an extremely tough one that will continue to give years of satisfaction once the student becomes a practicing therapist. Another great option is the Adapta AT-100 Aluminum Massage Table, offering lightweight portability at just 27 pounds. Strong and durable, this table has a working weight of 525 pounds and a choice of upholstery colors to blend with any décor. For the more environmentally friendly therapist, the Portable Green-Line Treatment/Massage Table  is an excellent 33 pound healthy choice. Manufactured by Hausmann Industries, among the first in the industry to introduce a green line of 'Eco-friendly' treatment tables, these products use environmentally safer alternatives to traditional materials for improved indoor air quality and healthier patients.

If the therapy practice will include massage offered in public locations, such as offices, shopping malls, airports, and outdoor festivals, a portable massage chair is the best option. The Travel Mark Portable Massage Chair features a lightweight aluminum frame with a fold-flat system. This high quality Health Mark chair also features their 'Rwar' rotating wheel which allows for easy rolling transport, and many torso and seat height position adjustments. Another fabulous choice is the Oakworks Portal Pro Portable Massage Chair. Weighing in at just 19 pounds, this chair is also very portable and storable, and includes a wide assortment of additional options including a face cradle pillow, face rest covers, a sternum pad and working stool for the massage therapist.

Carol Koenigsknecht,
Medical Consumer Editor
Content & Social Media Services
and
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Team Leader & CEO