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Massage Table Features
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Massage tables are equipped
with one of three types of endplates. They are Reiki, Standard and low
endplates. As you would surmise, these plates are situated at the ends
(or head and foot) of the massage table. The purpose of the endplates is
to help support the table. They are permanent fixtures of the table.
They stabilize it so that it doesn't shake during the massage. They also
add comfort for the massage recipient. Following are descriptions of the three types of endplates. Standard endplates are 1/8 inch thick and anywhere from a few inches to 12 inches tall. They are the most supportive endplates for a massage table, but the placement of them is not conducive to some types of massage because they are mounted at knee level. This creates a problems when therapists must get their knees under the table to get close to a client in order to provide a firm, deep tissue massage. The massage therapist may have trouble maneuvering with a wooden plate in the way. A Reiki endplate is just a few inches tall and 3/8 inches thick. This is about three times thicker than the other types of plates. The endplate is stronger, but is not situated in the most favorable location. It is at the top of the table so that it will not interfere with the therapist's knees. When performing Reiki techniques of massage, the therapist needs more access to the client, and thus, the endplate must not interfere with the therapist's knees. The endplate is usually an upside down U-shape and the portion of the plate that crosses between the legs is at the very top of the table. Unless the therapist is administering Reiki techniques, it is suggested that he/she choose a table with normal endplates because they will generate a more favorable massage. If you choose Reiki plates, scrutinize the cable system of your table. Some systems (such as the pin-lock system) will not allow the therapist to get his knees under the table from the side. However, if the wiring and structural portions flow down the center of the table, such as with the Golden Ratio system, this should not be a problem. One of the newer forms of endplates are the low endplates. The plate at the top of the table is more difficult to move than at the bottom; therefore, low endplates were created. They are generally thicker and stronger than a normal endplate. By using low endplates, it makes it easier for the massage therapist to get his/her legs under the table so that it is easier to massage the person. The ankles are resting on the low bar, but this is not a problem for the therapist. There is a fairly new massage table on the market with high/low endplates. This invention is beneficial because the support of the endplate is at the foot of the table and there are Reiki plates at the head of the table. Many of these plates have holes at both the foot and head of the table. These plates are also referred to as hi/low plates. |
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