This can be a subjective answer because of the varying morphology and techniques we all have and use. The simplest answer I can guide you, find a table height you are happy adjusting on for your height and technique then measure from the floor to the top of the table and you will have your answer. This is of course for a Stationary table.
Over the years many chiropractors inquire if they need an elevation table. Of the three things which can be moved, the Patient, the Table and Yourself, it is far quicker and easier to move yourself rather than a patient or a table. If you are comfortable adjusting (pardon the pun) your body position, then you may not need an Elevation Table.
On the other hand, if your technique requires a table height that needs to be modified then you should consider an elevation table. This is compared to a stationary table which will remain at a fixed height and may be harder on your body. Alternatively, if you are working in a multi doctor practice and all of you are varying heights then an Elevation Table is the best option.
Our Omni Tables have a couple of key things your need to be aware of. You can always raise a table, but you cannot lower one with the exception of one caveat. Let’s discuss raising a table firstly. We have 4 leveling feet which can be screwed out to raise your table 5 cm. Once fully extended to the 5 cm you can get some small micro movement as your table weighs (150 kg plus the patient) are all on the 4 by 12 mm legs. When the leveling feet are in as far as they go (lowest height) then the table is at its most stable. Therefore, always get a table closest to the height you are intending to use it at rather than raising it too far on its adjustable feet.
Here is the caution for lowering a table. This can only be achieved by completely removing the 4 leveling feet. This will change a table height between 2 to 2.5 cm. In many cases if a practitioner is struggling when adjusting and they feel their table is a little high then this can be an option.
Alternatively, you can raise the Chiropractor, well not physically but with carpet runners on either side of the table. Please refer to the attached image to guide you what I am referring to by a carpet runner. It is usually the same material as your carpet but professionally edged so no frayed edges or trip hazards. So, practitioners will even stick the edges down to minimise the risk of a trip hazard. It is possible to use two carpet runners, one on top of the other (approx. 2 cm) and in addition remove the 4 leveling feet to give the practitioner some additional height if needed. This can assistance you with a second-hand table but still falls short of having the right equipment to do your adjustments properly.
It is extremely important to get the table height right from the start. I do recommend taking extra time when obtaining the right equipment. This is so you do not get stuck with a table that does not suit yourself and ultimately your clients.
I have 30 years’ experience as the Principal Chiropractor in my multiple clinics throughout Southeast Queensland for over 30 years.
We have been manufacturing the range of Omni Tables Australia on the Gold Coast Australia since 2012. We are continuously improving and adding to our range of tables which includes our new Automatic Flexion-Distraction table. We ship our Tables internationally which include the UK, Ireland, Europe, India, Southeast Asia and New Zealand, plus all states of Australia.