Medical Equipment Blog


Hand Therapy Tables Q & A

Thursday, October 13, 2011

I have seen therapy tables in a variety of shapes and styles. What are the pros and cons of each option?

Therapy tables come in a number of shapes and sizes. Square and rectangular tables in a various sizes provide a very stable work surface for individuals or small group activities. These therapy tables are also easy to configure in a therapy or patient area without difficulty.

Horseshoe shaped tables are great for allowing one therapist easy access to several patients at the same time. The therapist is positioned in the center of the horseshoe shape and can turn to work individually with all patients or address the group from a central location. Quarter round tables provide the same option, just for fewer patients at one time. Usually the horseshoe tables are suitable for use with up to 4 patients while quarter round tables are better suited to working with two patients.

How easy is it to position therapy tables for use with patients in wheelchairs or those that are using assisted mobility devices?

All therapy tables are designed to be practical for therapists and patients to use. This includes the option for adjusting the height of the table to meet the specific needs of the patient or the therapist. different table models and sizes offer different height adjustment options. The larger the table the more legs that it will have for security and stability, which will typically require a bit more to adjust the positioning. Generally these types of tables adjust with a hand control knob that is located on each leg. Adjustments are set at one inch intervals with preset holes for the inset of the knob to lock the table into position.

Even larger sized group actively work table that are often used as therapy tables may be adjusted using a crank. This allows easy adjustment with just a simple turn of the device, with the option to remove the crank after the table is correctly positioned. Some of the tables that are used for patient stretching and exercise can also be controlled with an electric motor and a foot or hand control for smooth, quick adjustment similar to a hi low table.

Are there therapy tables that can be used with patients that are standing as opposed to seated?

There are several different models of therapy tables that are designed to be used in positions from seated to standing. These tables may be on casters or with a solid base that still allows easy portability when needed. The tables adjust quickly with two simple levers found at the outside of the legs where they join to the underside of the table. Moving these spring powered levers up allows the table to be pushed down or slid up to the correct height. The table is also designed to provide stability if the patient or therapist applies weight to the top of the table.

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