Massage Bench: Applications & Health Benefits

A massage bench can be found in many outpatient and inpatient facilities. Its purpose is to be able to perform an effective and beneficial massage on a person, for example, to loosen tension and muscles or to increase well-being. There are massage benches in many variations and with appropriate accessories, manually adjustable or electrically adjustable.

What is a massage bench?

Its purpose is to be able to perform an effective and beneficial massage on a person, for example, to relax tension and muscles or to increase well-being. A massage bench consists first of all of a lying surface, which is upholstered with multilayer foam. A massage bench is usually covered with durable plastic, which can be easily cleaned and disinfected. The head part of the bench is height adjustable. As an optional accessory, there is also a face cutout in the headboard. There are foldable massage benches, which are characterized by low weight and good transportability. A portable massage bench equipped with handles can be assembled and disassembled without much effort. On the other hand, a fixed massage bench has a higher weight. However, it is characterized by having more stability and being easier to adjust in height. The base of a massage bench is made of wood or metal. There are models that can be adjusted electrically. Castors are also available as an option. The load capacity of a massage bench is approximately 180 kg.

Shapes, types and types

The length of an average massage bench is 195 cm. In addition, there is about 25 cm for the headrest. A transportable massage bench is foldable in the middle and consists of a movable wooden frame or metal frame. On the sides there are armrests as accessories, furthermore an arm loop for placing the arms under the head. The angle of the headrest is adjustable. Additional stability is provided by a double leg lock. A massage bench is comfortably upholstered with multi-layer foam and covered with a durable and hard-wearing imitation leather, mostly PU imitation leather. In addition, disposable slipcovers are used to ensure hygienic use of the massage table. Alternatively, the surfaces of a massage bench are thoroughly cleaned after each use with appropriately disinfecting agents. The height of a massage bench can be adjusted. Variations between 64 and 85 cm are usually possible. The width of a massage bench can also vary. In the case of portable models, it is usually about 71 cm. Folding massage tables are mainly used by mobile masseurs. Fixed massage benches are suitable for massage studios or stationary facilities. They are functionally very different in design. There are plain models with a continuous lying surface and a solid wooden base. Then the height can be adjusted only manually. The corners of such massage benches are usually rounded to ensure a more comfortable massage. Furthermore, there are fixed massage benches, which are multifunctional in design and conveniently become usable also as a cosmetic couch. They are available with headrests and footrests and thus people can be treated in a semi-recumbent position. Massages in prone positions are also possible with these models. There are massage benches, which are also called massage tables and have a metal cross-bracing base that resembles an ironing board. Contrary to the foldable models, whose light weights are only 18 kg and less, the electric models weigh quite more than 85 kg. Made of very solid metal tubes, the height can be regulated by an electric foot switch. Due to their weight, these massage tables are equipped with casters, so they are easier to move around the room.

Structure and operation

A massage bench consists of a lying surface, which is on average a maximum of 80 cm wide and a maximum of 200 cm long. In addition, headrests with a face cutout, which mostly already belong to a massage table as standard, belong as accessories. Furthermore, there are massage tables with armrests and arm loops to support the arms under the face during the massage. The base of a massage bench is made of wood or metal and reaches a height of about 80 cm. There are massage benches in great variety of models, but the basic structure is almost identical. Folding models are split in the middle and can be transported like a large suitcase.Simple mechanisms allow them to be unfolded very easily and practically. The fixed models are often equipped with wheels and are a little more stable overall.

Medical and health benefits

A massage bench has significant medical and health benefits as it provides professional massage. Massages have a therapeutic effect and promote blood circulation. Tension can be relieved through massage. Painful joint problems are also treated by a massage and can be alleviated. However, a massage considerably increases the general physical well-being even without acute health problems. A comfortable and well-designed massage bench contributes elementarily to the success of a good massage. The person being massaged should feel comfortable and safe on a massage bench. Therefore, it is important that a massage bench is softly padded, yet stable and comfortable. Pressure point massages promote blood circulation. Stretching the joints causes the muscles to relax. Various forms of massage support the entire skeletal system. Appropriate bending and stretching in turn supports the mobility of the entire body. Lymphatic flow is also stimulated. Rotating movements of the joints make the body more supple and relaxed. A professional massage also stimulates the metabolism. The whole organism relaxes and finds itself in a state of pleasant comfort. Professional massage benches considerably support the possibilities of an effective and health-promoting massage.