Chiropractic Tables - Adjustment Tables, Exam Tables, Drop, Tilt, & Elevation Tables

Other than skilled hands, a chiropractor’s table may be the most important tool in his or her practice; with that in mind, Scriphessco.com has proudly curated the widest variety of quality chiropractic tables in the industry. Chiropractic adjusting tables, benches, exam room tables, hylo tables, flexion-distraction, and traction tables are available with multiple features including drop segments, height adjustability, automated or manual controls, many fabric options, and so much more. To buy chiropractic tables from ScripHessco, browse our online selection and contact our knowledgeable sales team for a truly customized experience. We look forward to helping you navigate the process.

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CHIROPRACTIC TABLE GUIDE

Understanding the Relationship Between Tables & Technique

With their skilled hands, chiropractors help resolve a myriad of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. In addition to the provider's hands, choosing the right chiropractic table is essential to a successful practice. Chiropractic adjustment tables come with a variety of specialized features specific to certain treatment techniques. The type of care and the services provided will vary by condition and each technique may be improved by selecting the right table.

Common Table Features to Consider

Ample Width - Keep clients of all shapes and sizes in mind. Comfort makes for a more relaxed patient, and in turn, a more effective treatment.

Vertical Lift Capability - Dial in on the perfect table height to accommodate practitioner height, treatment type, and client accessibility with vertically adjustable tables.

Portability - To expand your practice outside of your office, consider choosing a portable chiropractic table.

Drop Features - Manual or automatic drop segments in one or more table sections can help provide gentler services to clients in significant pain or in need of a lighter touch.

Traction Options - Decompression options, like flexion and rotation, will give you the ability to treat exceptionally challenging conditions when necessary.

COMMON CHIROPRACTIC TECHNIQUES

The Activator Method

The Activator technique utilizes a spring-loaded tool to create gentle impulses along the spine or on extremities instead of manual manipulation. Effectively treats a number of conditions ranging from chronic headaches to lower back pain.

Diversified Technique

This technique uses quick shallow thrusts to correct spinal alignment, improve mobility, and repair joint dysfunction. In order to treat clients of all shapes and sizes, providers often choose a height-adjustable elevation table to practice this technique.

Gonstead Adjustment

The Gonstead Method is one of the most precise techniques for spinal alignment, particularly along the lower back or pelvis. The patient lays on his or her side or in a sitting position while the chiropractor targets joints causing pain or limiting mobility.

Thompson Drop Technique

Also referred to as the Drop Technique, this adjustment style uses a Drop Chiropractic Table to create impact by moving specific sections of the table to manipulate the spine. The slower movement reduces, and can even eliminate, pain during the adjustment.

Flexion Distraction

Flexion-Distraction requires a special table engineered to flex and distract the spine in a rhythmic motion during manual adjustment. Typically utilized to resolve cervical and lumbar disorders with associated leg and back pain, this technique is considered to be nearly pain-free for patients.

Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression techniques utilize a programmable traction table to stretch muscles and manipulate discs to alleviate pressure and pain. By creating more space between the vertebrae and within the discs, regenerative fluid moves in to provide much-needed relief.

Drop Tables

Description: Decades ago Dr. J. Clay Thompson founded the drop table purely by happenstance when the broken headpiece on his table dropped during treatments. His patients experienced remarkable results and in 1955, he patented the drop headpiece. Available on stationary, portable, hylo, and elevation tables, drop tables feature one or more adjustable segments including the headpiece, thoracic, cervical, pelvic, and abdominal regions. The dropping action of each section is available with manual, programmed, or air-powered controls.

Recommended Techniques: Thompson Drop Technique, Blair Technique, Activator Method

Best Drop Table: Elite STA - 3 Stationary Chiropractic Table

Portable Adjusting Tables

Description: For practitioners offering mobile services or with limited space, portable chiropractic tables are outstanding alternatives to stationary tables. Lightweight and compact, portable tables are available with many of the same features seen in other chiropractic benches including height adjustability, drop sections, armrests, broader widths, and dense foam padding. Many portable adjustment table packages come with convenient carry cases and offer respectable weight capacities to accommodate most individuals.

Recommended Techniques: Thompson Drop Technique, Diversified Technique, Activator Method

Best Portable Table: Lloyd C-105A Portable Chiropractic Table

POPULAR CHIROPRACTIC TABLE TYPES

Elevation Tables

Description: Elevation chiropractic tables offer manual or electrically-powered height adjustability. Changing the table's height to the optimal level for the provider to complete the treatment and for the patient to access the table, maximize the outcome of the adjustment for both. Many elevation tables include manual or automatic cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic drop sections and adjustable headpieces.

Recommended Techniques: Diversified Technique, Activator Method, Thompson Drop Technique, Blair Technique

Best Elevation Table: Lloyd Astro Elevation Table

Hylo Tables

Description: Like the Elevation table, Hylo tables are height adjustable providing optimal flexibility for different adjustment techniques and provider preferences, however, they also move vertically to an upright position. For patients who are mobility-challenged, the tilting feature offers a convenient and safe way to access the table. Depending on the manufacturer these tables can be referred to as HiLo, Hi-Lo, or High - Low Tables. Hylo tables are available with multiple drop options powered manually or automatically and advanced models may even combine multiple technique features such as flexion-distraction capabilities.

Recommended Techniques: Thompson Drop Technique, Gonstead Method, Blair Technique, Diversified Technique, Activator Method

Best HiLo Table: Lloyd Galaxy Ultimate Elevation Hylo Table

Flexion Distraction Tables

Description: Flexion-distraction is performed to correct posture and spinal alignment in patients with disc problems or chronic lower back pain. This special type of table allows the provider to efficiently perform correction, flexion, extension, and rotation while the patient remains fully relaxed and comfortable. Flexion-distraction options may also be available on some portable chiropractic tables.

Recommended Techniques: Flexion-Distraction Technique, Diversified Technique, Activator Method

Best Flexion-Distraction Table: Leander LT 950 Flexion-Distraction Table

Intersegmental Traction Tables

Description: Intersegmental tables, or roller tables, are used to gently improve range of motion within the spine. In order for the discs to stay properly nourished, spinal fluid must be able to access them. Misalignment can prohibit that from happening. Intersegmental tables use rolling action along the spine to stretch the muscles and ligaments allowing nutrient-rich fluid access effectively improving mobility and reducing pain.

Recommended Techniques: Intersegmental Traction Therapy

Best Intersegmental Roller Table: ScripHessco IST 350 Intersegmental Table

Decompression Tables

Description: Spinal decompression technique utilizes an automated traction table to stretch muscles and manipulate discs to alleviate pressure and chronic lower back pain. By creating more space between the vertebrae and within the discs themselves, water, oxygen, and essential fluids can easily flow around the spinal column to provide relief. Decompression tables are some of the most technically advanced on the market and offer a wealth of treatment opportunities.

Recommended Techniques: Spinal Decompression Therapy

Best Traction Table: Chattanooga Triton DTS 6M Traction Table

Multi-Technique Tables

Description: Chiropractic adjustment tables can be simple and economical or offer additional functionality that allows a provider to perform multiple types of specialties all on one table. Features and add-ons can include flexion-distraction, drop section, tilting options, and height adjustability to name a few. Although the price tag can be intimidating, the return on investment may be exponential. To determine which table is best for your practice, contact one of our knowledgeable Sales Representatives for guidance.

Recommended Techniques: Spinal Decompression Therapy, Flexion-Distraction, and , depending on the model chosen

Best All-Around Table: Lojer Manuthera® 242 Table

Carts & Stools

Bolsters & Cushions

Headpieces & Arm Rests

Therapy & Exam Room

Table Features & Add-Ons

CHIROPRACTIC TABLE ACCESSORIES & PRACTICE ENHANCEMENTS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What exactly is a chiropractic adjustment?

Chiropractic or spinal adjustment is the process of manipulating the spine by a licensed chiropractor to correct misalignment and help reduce pain. In addition to a reliance on gentle stretching and massage techniques, many therapists prefer to utilize chiropractic drop tables to realign joints. When manual manipulation is the preferred course of action, a chiropractor typically applies controlled and quick force with his or her hands. This process is often accompanied by joint cavitation (cracking), which is an audible release of gas followed by a feeling of relief, although short-term minor discomfort is not uncommon.

How does a chiropractic drop table work?

Drop tables are segmented chiropractic tables utilized during an adjustment. The table’s sections can be slightly raised up to 2 inches by means of weighted mechanisms to target specific areas of the body. Once the patient is on the table, the chiropractor will manipulate the table allowing a section to drop and align with the rest. Depending on the drop table’s settings and available segments, a therapist can manipulate the entire spine from the lower back to the neck. This is a comfortable and effective technique for both the chiropractor and the patient.

What types of tables do chiropractors most commonly use?

Adjusting Benches — Basic chiropractic tables offered at affordable prices.

Portable Chiropractic Tables — Lightweight, yet strong tables. Easy to set up and simple to fold. Very practical for house calls and any work outside the office.

Elevation Tables — Height-adjustable chiropractic tables that put less strain on doctors. They can be motorized or manually pumped.

Flexion-Distraction Tables — Tables using the flexion-distraction technique. Meant to relieve pressure near the spinal region.

HyLo Tables — Also known as HiLo or high-low. One of the most popular types of chiropractic tables. Besides being height-adjustable like elevation tables, they can also be positioned vertically. Useful for patients with limited mobility.

Mat Platform Tables — Large, sturdy tables that can accommodate heavier patients. Also suitable for patients that need to be transferred from wheelchairs.

Drop Chiropractic Table — Can be stationary or portable, HiLo or elevation. All adjustment tables are drop tables if they have drop segments. These segments can be in the pelvic, thoracic, or cervical regions.

Traction Tables — Used to stretch and manipulate muscles and discs to create space. They can be sold separately or packaged with a traction unit.

Chiropractic Exam Tables — Ranging from basic benches to versatile adjustable tables with storage.

Chiropractic Tilt Tables — Some have a manually adjustable tilt to lift the back. Others have an electronic tilt up / tilt down function for gravity-based treatment.

Why do chiropractors use drop tables?

Drop adjustment tables are more gentle on both the chiropractor and the patient's body. This is because this type of table uses the force of gravity to amplify the adjustment delivered. Each table can utilize several drop segments to target specific problem areas within the pelvic, thoracic, cervical, or abdominal region.

Is there a weight limit for a chiropractic table?

The weight limit varies greatly. It depends on the manufacturer, type, and model of the chiropractor table. A basic table holds up to 300 lbs, but some sturdier models can even go up to 550 lbs. In the case of mat platform tables, there are models that hold up to 900 lbs. Wall-mounted and space-saving platforms only hold about 300 lbs. Always check for the weight capacity in the product specifications.

What is a flexion-distraction table?

The flexion-distraction technique consists of gentle chiropractor manipulations combined with table movements. It requires a special table with movable parts. These must be capable of flex and side-flex movements. The flexion-distraction table stretches and decompresses the spine. It is primarily used for patients with chronic lower back pain and bulging or herniated discs.

What does a chiropractic roller table do?

A chiropractic roller table is used to knead and relax muscles in your back. It is also known as an intersegmental traction table or a roller massage table. The number of rollers varies between models. They can also have adjustable massage pressure and vibration. This table is designed for pretreatment therapy. It is also very efficient for massaging the neck, shoulders, and lower back.