Physical therapy is a part of medical science that uses physical methods to treat illnesses and injuries rather than medicine or surgery. Mat platform tables, often known as mat tables, are a type of physical therapy equipment used in sports medicine and chiropractic operations.

Mat tables, which are mostly made of hardwood or steel and covered with a thick foam layer, have become popular for a variety of purposes.

They are lower in height than ordinary tables and are designed primarily for manual treatment techniques like myofascial release, deep tissue massage, joint manipulation, range-of-motion exercises, rehabilitation activities, and stretching exercises. Mat platform tables allow for easy access to clients as well as ample space for the therapist to perform manual methods while on the table.

Simply said, therapy mat tables aid in the treatment of clients by allowing them to perform floor exercises at a higher level.

Physical therapy mat platforms have evolved into numerous possibilities to match patients' and practitioners' requirements, ranging from a basic model costing a few hundred dollars to a feature-rich electric hi-lo model.

The first thing to understand about mat tables is their characteristics. The two most important aspects of mat tables for physical treatment are their height and top size. Continue reading to learn more.

A mat table's normal height ranges from 18" to 20", allowing practitioners to easily transfer a client from a wheelchair. As an initial step in treatment, this easy access benefits both clients and practitioners. The height is also a regular sitting height, allowing clients to perform a variety of exercises while sitting on the mat platform's edge.

Mat tables are substantially larger than typical treatment tables in terms of top dimensions. They are large enough to accompany people while applying pressure and leverage as needed, and they are constructed with ample space for therapists to manipulate clients' bodies.

4 '* 7', 5 '* 7', and 6 '* 8' are the common mat table sizes.

Mat tables for physical therapy come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The following are some of the most common mat tables for physical therapy:

Wall-mounted treatment mat tables are ideal for small spaces; they are typically 4'*7' or 5'*7' in height, have three sides of access, and weigh significantly less than a stationary floor type. When not in use, the wall-mounted mat table's key benefit is that it can be folded down from the wall.

A space-saving portable mat platform with access from all four sides. Therapists can deliver treatment at their customers' homes because they are portable. The following dimensions are available: In a variety of colours, 35" x 78", 33" x 78", and 40" x 78". The height can be manually adjusted from 17 "to 26".

Hi-Lo mat tables are available in both electric and manual versions. For easy patient access, the height can be adjusted from 20 "to 30". For height modification, they include both electric and manual lifting methods.

Reduce practitioner wear and tear, making it easier on the back. They're convenient, adaptable, and pleasant for all patients, regardless of height.

Raised rim mat tables are a special type of platform table that features a detachable mat. During treatments, the raised rim prevents patients from sliding off. The most cost-effective option, with two uses: on the table and on the floor.

Mat tables with a hardwood and metal structure are durable and can tolerate harsh situations. Fixed height mat tables occur in both metal and wood, although hi-lo mat platforms are mainly composed of metal. Hardwoods are available in natural or stained finishes and provide a touch of warmth. Powder-coated steel fixed metal mat platforms are available in a limited range of colours.

Mat tables with movable backs-The majority of mat tables have a single-section top. Mat tables with 2-section tops or adjustable backs, on the other hand, can help patients sit upright. During treatments, they provide comfort and additional assistance to patients.

There are mat tables specifically intended for the house, in addition to the above possibilities. Learn more about them by further reading.

Patients who prefer to be treated at home by a professional or a family member will benefit from having mat tables in the house. Clients will find them comfortable, and they will be able to stretch, do rehabilitation exercises, and receive body manipulation treatments.

After you've learned about the several types of physical therapy mat tables, there are a few more things you should know about mat platforms.

Weight capacity varies with different mat table types. With around 400 lbs, the wall-mount tables have the lowest capacity. However, some manufacturers produce bariatric wall-mount mat tables with specially designed brackets that can support up to 1,000 lbs.

Most fixed-height wood mat tables have a weight capability of 500 to 1,000 lbs, whereas metal frames can handle up to 1,000 lbs.

The Hi-Lo mat table has a weight capacity of 500 to 1,000 pounds.

Additionally, some fixed-height stationary mat tables have 5 or 6 legs to handle heavier bariatric weights.

The weight of a therapy mat table can range from 125 pounds for a simple wood model to more than 400 pounds for an electric hi-lo mat table. Mat tables must be sent through a freight carrier because they are huge and hefty. If your facility does not have a deck, lift gate services might be used.

However, there is an exception to this rule! The Oakworks Portable Mat Table, which weighs roughly 55 pounds, may be transported via UPS or FedEx.

When it comes to mat tables, the majority of them merely take a few minutes to put together and only require the legs to be secured with nuts and bolts. Hi-lo mat tables, on the other hand, are frequently delivered completely assembled.

Finally, over time, physical therapy mat tables have evolved to suit patients of various heights and weights. Ergonomics advancements have also reduced therapist wear and tear while improving patient comfort and access. Mat tables are available at varying rates for practically every type of physical treatment.