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Adjustable Table Height and Positioning Systems

This brief guide details everything you need to know about the different systems for table height adjustment and positioning.

Adjustable Table Height and Positioning Systems: A Complete Guide

The right adjustment system can make the difference between a good treatment table and a great one. Understanding how different height and positioning mechanisms work will help you choose the table that best supports your practice style and patient needs.

Three Core Adjustment Systems

Alevo offers three primary adjustment systems across their range, each designed for specific practice requirements and environments:

1. Power-Driven Tables

Massage Table
Pro-Lift Venus – example of a powered table

2. Portable Tables

Centurion Genesis Compact is a great product for the practitioner on the move.
Centurion Genesis Compact – example of a portable table

3. Stationary Tables

Massage Table
Athlegen Stationary One Section – example of a stationary table

Power-Driven Tables: Maximum Versatility and Efficiency

Power-driven tables represent “the best” of adjustment technology, offering the fastest speeds, most flexibility, and the least amount of time to configure. These tables use German-engineered actuators to provide height adjustments and multi-section positioning.

Speed That Matters

The heart of Alevo’s power-driven system is the Hanning AC motor, which delivers:

  • 37mm per second adjustment speed
  • Full height range adjustment (48.1cm) in just 13 seconds
  • Three times faster than competing DC motor systems (which typically take 40 seconds)

In the words of one of our customers; “Alevo’s tables go up and down about three times faster than anything else on the market”.  This is a pretty big time saver if you’re constantly adjusting positions throughout the treatment or treating many patients in a day.

Key Components of Power-Driven Systems

Height Adjustment

  • Lift Force: 10,000N German actuators
  • Range: 487mm total adjustment range
  • Load Capacity: Tested with 180kg loads
  • Control: Foot switches – Option to add a footswitch on both sides for hands-free operation

Section Adjustments Power-driven tables feature multiple independently adjustable sections:

  1. Backrest Sections
    • Adjust from -20° (Trendelenburg position) to +65° (Fowler position)
    • Motorized options available for seamless transitions
    • Lengths vary from 680mm to 930mm depending on model
  2. Mid-Section Controls
    • Raising mid-section (RMS) models offer additional positioning options
    • Ideal for postural drainage and specialized treatments
  3. Tilt Seat Sections
    • Adjustable for patient comfort
    • Provides improved back support

Popular Power-Driven Models

ProLift Treatment Series

  • Treatment V: Dual 680mm backrests for ambidextrous practitioners or multi practitioner practices.
  • Treatment X: Designed for dermatology with extended positioning range
  • Treatment MB: Features motorized backrest for effortless adjustments
  • Treatment 930: Longer backrest ideal for seated treatments and podiatry

Please note that this is just a sample of the Pro-Lift range. Check out the other tables over here on the Athlegen collection page.

Access Range

  • Access Standard: Popular bodywork table with integrated head cradle
  • Access RMS: Ultimate versatility with motorised raising mid-section
  • Access ABR: Adjustable backrest for multi-modality practices

Specialty Models

Portable Tables: Professional Performance Anywhere

Portable tables combine professional-grade features with the flexibility of mobile practice. Despite their lightweight design, these tables offer impressive adjustment capabilities.

Height Adjustment Mechanisms

The following list is a general round up. Jump onto the product page of any of our tables to get a better and more accurate picture of how their adjustment mechanisms work!

D-Shaped Aluminum Legs

  • Fast, tool-free height adjustment
  • 8 height settings in 25mm increments
  • Range: 590mm to 820mm (varies by model)
  • Small incremental adjustments for perfect ergonomics

Structural Design

  • CNC precision-crafted plywood frames
  • Finger-jointed construction for strength
  • Reinforced aluminum struts for stability
  • Quiet and strong triangulated struts on premium CXL models
  • Twin cable support systems

Adjustable Features on Portable Tables

Backrest Adjustment (ABR Models)

  • Slider mechanism with 10 settings
  • Quickly converts flat table to seated position
  • Ideal for treatments requiring varied positioning
  • Adds only 3-4kg to table weight

Head Cradle / Face Hole Options

  • Head cradles accessory for improved prone comfort with height and angle adjustments.
  • Head cradles extend the table length (300mm) great for taller clients
  • Face hole options with removable plugs

Weight vs. Features

Alevo’s portable range demonstrates that lightweight doesn’t mean compromising on adjustability:

  • Centurion Natura: 12.5kg with 8 height settings
  • Elite 635: 12.4kg with full height range
  • Elite 720: 13.7kg with generous 720mm width
    Cxl 720: 13.7kg with generous 720mm width
  • Elite ABR: 16.5kg including adjustable backrest

Stationary Tables: Solid Foundation for Fixed Locations

Stationary tables provide the stability of a fixed base with essential adjustment features for practices that don’t require mobility.

Key Characteristics

Manual Height Adjustment

  • Made to order at a optimal working height
  • Some models offer limited height adjustment via leg extensions
  • Ideal when multiple practitioners share similar height preferences

Backrest Adjustments

  • Manual positioning systems similar to portable ABR models
  • Smooth, reliable mechanisms for long-term use
  • Multiple angle settings for treatment versatility

Benefits of Stationary Systems

  • No setup or pack-down time
  • Maximum stability for intensive treatments
  • Often more affordable than power-driven options
  • Minimal maintenance requirements

Choosing the Right Adjustment System

For Medical and Clinical Settings

Recommendation: Power-driven tables

  • Fast height adjustments for varied procedures
  • Multiple section control for patient positioning
  • Reduced practitioner fatigue
  • Professional appearance

For Mobile Practitioners

Recommendation: Portable tables

  • Professional features in a mobile package
  • Quick setup and adjustment
  • Lightweight without sacrificing stability
  • Versatile positioning options

For Dedicated Treatment Rooms

Recommendation: Consider your primary modality

  • Massage therapy: Stationary or power-driven with minimal sections
  • Physiotherapy: Power-driven with multiple adjustable sections
  • Beauty/spa: Power-driven with smooth, quiet operation
  • Multi-modality: Power-driven with maximum adjustability

Advanced Features to Consider

Footrest Extensions

  • Extend table length by up to 200mm
  • Accommodate taller patients comfortably
  • Available on both power and portable models

Side Supports

  • 610mm x 210mm patient stabilizers
  • Slide-in design for easy adjustment
  • Essential for certain medical procedures

Safety Features

  • Auto locking mechanisms on all adjustment points
  • Safety rails (optional on some models)

    The Impact of Quality Adjustments On Treatment Efficiency

    Faster adjustments mean more treatment time

  • Smooth transitions maintain patient relaxation
  • Precise positioning improves treatment outcomes

On Practitioner Health

  • Proper height adjustment reduces back strain
  • Easy adjustments encourage optimal positioning
  • Less physical effort required throughout the day

On Patient Experience

  • Smooth, quiet adjustments maintain comfort
  • Stable positioning increases confidence
  • Versatile adjustments accommodate all body types

Maintenance Considerations

Power-Driven Systems

  • Annual servicing recommended
  • Keep control boxes free from dust
  • Test all functions regularly
  • 3-year motor warranty standard

Manual Systems

  • Weekly tension checks on adjustment mechanisms
  • Lubricate moving parts as specified
  • Tighten adjustment knobs as needed
  • Replace worn components promptly

Making Your Decision

Consider these factors when choosing your adjustment system:

  1. Practice Type: Mobile vs. fixed location
  2. Treatment Modalities: Simple vs. complex positioning needs
  3. Patient Demographics: Elderly or mobility-impaired patients benefit from power systems
  4. Budget: Initial investment vs. long-term efficiency gains
  5. Physical Demands: Your own health and stamina requirements

The Bottom Line

The right adjustment system transforms your treatment table from a static platform into a dynamic tool that enhances every aspect of your practice. Whether you choose the sophisticated automation of power-driven tables, the versatility of portable systems, or the reliability of stationary models, understanding these mechanisms ensures you make an informed investment in your professional future.

Remember: The best adjustment system is the one that seamlessly integrates with your workflow, supports your physical wellbeing, and provides the positioning options your patients need for optimal treatment outcomes.


All specifications mentioned are based on current Alevo models and are subject to manufacturing tolerances. Contact Alevo at 1800 141 141 for specific model availability and detailed specifications.

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