Best Treatment Tables for Different Therapy Types

If you’re a specialist like an osteopath, gynaecologist, phlebotomist or radiologist, finding a treatment table is fairly straight forward. There are products made specifically for your modality.

However, if you’re a physio, chiro, or massage therapist, the range of tables you have to choose from is huge and can feel overwhelming.

The goal of this article is to point you in the right direction when you’re researching a new table for your practice or clinic.

Here’s a quick guide to the best tables for physiotherapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic care in Australia:

• Imported Electric Height-Adjustable Tables: Motorised height adjustments (530–825 mm), ergonomic design, and durability. Ideal for clinics and hospitals. Prices start from $1,495.
• Folding Massage Tables: Lightweight (11–15 kg), portable, and affordable. Perfect for mobile therapists, students, newly graduated therapists on a tight budget, and temporary setups. Prices range from $277 to $671.
• Australian Made Specialist Electric Tables: Advanced features like drop sections, modular armrests, headrests and other adjustable and motorised components, and motorised adjustments. Designed for manual body work in a wide range of positions. Usually made to order in a wide range of colours and coverings including leather. Prices start from $3,280.

Quick Comparison

Table Type	Key Features	Limitations	Best Suited For	Price Range (AUD)
Imported Electric Height-Adjustable Tables (Centurion range)	Motorised height adjustment, supports up to 205kg, basic adjustable sections	Heavy and harder to move, only basic modularity	Clinics, hospitals, rehab centres	$1,495–$3,740
Portable Massage Tables	Lightweight, portable, quick setup, no electricity needed	High static weight capacity but manual setup	Mobile therapists, home visits	$277–$671
Australian Made Specialist Electric Tables	Drop sections, pelvic supports, modular components, highly customisable, custom colour upholstery	Can be specified with a wide range of options 2-3 weeks manufacturing lead times	Established chiropractic, physio and massage practices. Radiology, day surgery, can be adapted for most specialist medical requirements.	$3,280 – $7,260

This guide simplifies your decision-making by highlighting the best options for your therapy practice. Read on for detailed insights into each table type.

1. Imported Electric Height-Adjustable Tables

The Centurion range of electric height-adjustable tables have become a game-changer for Australian practitioners. These tables allow motorised height adjustments ranging from 530mm to 825mm, ensuring both patients and clinicians are positioned comfortably.

This design supports ergonomic working conditions and allows for quick treatment transitions – perfect for busy clinics. These features not only improve clinician efficiency but also prioritise patient safety.

These tables are Australian designed, with the rigors of Aussie practitioners in mind. They’re manufactured in China which makes them more budget friendly.

To keep these tables functioning properly, practitioners should follow a regular maintenance schedule. This includes mechanical inspections and annual electrical safety checks to ensure reliability and safety.

2. Portable Massage Tables

Portable massage tables are a practical choice for mobile therapists and clinics that need both portability and stability. Let’s break down the key features that make these tables effective for different settings.

Alevo’s modern designs incorporate lightweight aluminium frames, which strike a balance between being sturdy and easy to carry. For mobile therapists, a table width of 620mm is ideal, while clinics may prefer a slightly wider option, around 635mm.

Feature	Mobile Practice
Weight	11–15 kg recommended
Width	620–720 mm
Height Range	610–810 mm
Working Load	190 kg minimum standard

Comfort has also been improved with high-density foam padding. The Centurion portable range includes 64mm thick cushioning with high-end upholstery, offering the right mix of comfort and portability.

Another helpful feature is the quick-release mechanism, which allows the table to be set up in just 15 seconds – a real time-saver for therapists who work across multiple locations.

Popular accessories for folding massage tables include:

• Adjustable face cradles to support proper spinal alignment
• Pregnancy pillow to support patient’s midsection Bolsters to improve comfort during treatment
• Fitted towelling covers
• Carry bags

Mobile practitioners should prioritise lightweight designs and easy transport.

Alevo’s range of portable tables come with quality durable upholstery, which is both long-lasting and easy to clean.

3. Australian Made Specialist Electric Tables

Alevo’s range of specialist electric tables are designed and manufactured in Australia. Each model is built with specific features to support proper patient positioning and effective treatment depending on the modality of use.

These tables can include variable adjustable height settings to accommodate various techniques, multiple drop sections for accurate spinal adjustments, high patient weight capacities, and a large range of widths designed for optimal patient and practitioner comfort.

Having worked with Aussie health professionals for over 30 years, we’ve developed an extensive range of tables suited to particular specialists modalities. Here’s a quick list of the modalities we support;

• Acupuncturist
• Age care specialists
• Allied health
• Spa, laser & beauty
• Bowen therapists
• Cardiologists
• Chiropractors
• Cosmetic surgeons
• Day surgeons
• Dermatologists
• Echocardiologists
• Gynaecologists
• Sonographers
• IVF specialists
• Laser treatment specialists
• Massage and natural therapists
• Orthopaedic surgeons
• Osteopaths
• Phlebotomists
• Physiotherapists
• Podiatrists
• Radiologists
• Spa treatments
• Tattoo artists

One of the most notable features of our Australian made range of electric tables is the use of high-powered motors that quickly adjusts from treatment positions. This allow for smoother adjustments during treatment, and means that neither you nor your patient are waiting around for the table to move into position longer than necessary.

Key features often include:

• Motorised backrest and seat tilt
• Extendable footrest for taller patients as standard
• Optional Body filler pads provide support during shoulder treatments
• Optional removable Manicure Armrests
• A unique, ergonomic, contoured top model pioneered by Athlegen
• A built-in adjustable head cradle and armrest
• Choice of PVC, PU and genuine leather fabrics
• Choice of five Dunlop cushioning systems
• Heavy duty steel structure
• Quality powder coating of steel components
• Proudly made in Ballarat, Victoria for more than 25 years
• No assembly required

When choosing a table, consider one that suits your treatment style, accommodates your patients’ needs, and fits your clinic’s layout. This ensures consistent, high-quality care.

Features and Limitations

Here’s a breakdown of the key features, limitations, and ideal uses for different treatment table types:

Table Type	Key Features	Best Suited For
Imported Electric Height-Adjustable Tables (Centurion range)	The electric motor ensures a quiet, vibration-free performance	• Physiotherapy clinics
	The base includes four adjustable floor-levelling feet	• Hospitals
	The detachable power cord is not hardwired into the table frame, making it easy and inexpensive to replace if damaged	• Long-term rehab centres
	Stainless steel foot controller	GP Clinics
	No assembly required
	The sturdy built-in head-cradle features a gas strut that makes adjustments easy and accurate
Portable Massage Tables	Only weighs ~12-15 kg	• Mobile therapists
	Small incremental height settings for a table height that is perfect for you	• Home visits
	Plastic washes between all metal parts prevent noise during treatments	• Temporary setups
	Aluminium struts provide superior table support	• Sports events
	Twin cable system for extra security
Australian Made Specialist Electric Tables	Choice of PVC, PU and genuine leather fabrics	• Chiropractic clinics, osteopathy clinics
	Proudly made in Ballarat, Victoria for more than 25 years	• Physio clinics
	Choice of two Dunlop cushioning systems	• Beauty & massage spas
	A built-in adjustable head cradle and armrest	• All specialised medical practices
	No assembly required

 

Alevo’s commitment to quality manufacturing has been widely recognised ^[2.

“Our service vision is to make your life easier, reduce stress, and lift your capacity to perform at the highest level.” – Alevo

Maintenance Tips for Different Table Types

Each table type requires specific care to maintain performance over time:

Electric Tables

• Schedule annual electrical safety checks.
• Inspect components regularly.
• Seek professional servicing as needed.
• Use original spare parts for replacements to retain warranty.

Portable Tables

• Check the frame for damage.
• Monitor cable tension.
• Keep cushioning in good condition Regularly clean the covering.
• Tighten screws and hardware (rarely needed).

Specialist Tables

• Watch for wear on components.
• Arrange annual precautionary and electrical test tag servicing.
• Follow cleaning instructions provided with the table.

• A standout moment for Australian manufacturers occurred during the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games when Alevo successfully delivered the single largest global order for treatment tables ^[2].

When considering long-term value, electric tables may cost more initially but often pay off with durability and ergonomic benefits. Portable tables are great for flexibility but are a compromise solution in busy practices. Specialist tables, while pricey, are indispensable for advanced therapeutic techniques.

Summary and Recommendations

Based on the comparisons above, here are the top options tailored for each type of therapy practice:

For Physiotherapy Practices
The Pro-Lift Treatment X and V tables ($3,622.50) offer motorised height adjustment, catering to a wide range of patient needs. For more complex treatments, the Treatment MB ($4,179.00) features a 730 mm motorised backrest, providing excellent positioning.

For Massage Therapists
For mobile practitioners, the Pro-Lift Treatment 680 ($3,590.00) and Treatment 930 ($3,700.00) are great options. These tables are versatile enough to support massage, beauty treatments, and acupuncture.

For Chiropractic Clinics
The Pro-Lift Venus ($4,945.50) comes with an adjustable head cradle, motorised backrest, extendable footrest, and a variety of customisable base styles.

Investment Considerations
When choosing a table, consider the initial cost, its expected lifespan (select models include a 15-year structural warranty), annual maintenance expenses, and the specific needs of your practice.

Maintenance Requirements
Regular upkeep is crucial. Here are some key tips for maintaining your table:

“A proactive maintenance strategy extends the equipment’s useful life, reduces the likelihood of any downtime, and satisfies any regulatory requirements. An annual inspection, including an electrical safety inspection, is recommended.” – Alevo ^[

Alevo has delivered over 100,000 treatment tables to more than 40 countries. Their factory in Ballarat, Victoria, ensures Australian practitioners have quick access to spare parts and reliable service support from Alevo service personnel..

These recommendations align with our earlier emphasis on ergonomic design and durable quality, ensuring each table meets the rigorous standards of Australian clinical practices.