From wood to multi-drop high tech, here are some of the latest in chiropractic adjusting tables
Chiropractic and chiropractic adjusting tables made their first recorded appearance in the United States in 1895, when Daniel David (D.D.) Palmer first successfully applied the newly-created treatment method.
According to historians, that first chiropractic table was nothing more than an ordinary table or bench, made of wood and standing knee-high with the patient supported by pillows.
The portable table came along in 1905, according to historian Steve Simmons, DC. Known as the Adams Suit Case Table — likely because it was produced by the Suit Case Factory and was in the company’s Adams Line — the table was also made of wood, yet it came in a leather case and opened into two separate pieces.
Patent pending
The first patented chiropractic table didn’t appear until 1910, according to Steve Agocs, DC. That patent was filed by John H. Schenck, a man who may or may not have been a doctor of chiropractic. In an image of the drawing of the table submitted with the patent, padding covers the top and bottom of the table, and the middle section is sunken in, with thicker padding there.
The year 1955 saw the first chiropractic table with movable pieces. This innovation came about when J. Clay Thompson purchased a chiropractic table with a broken headpiece. After buying a new table, Thompson realized he was having better results with the broken table, as it allowed the patient’s head to drop slightly when he delivered a thrust. His patients preferred the broken table as well, leading Thompson to the development of the drop headpiece.
Two years later, Thompson created a table with multiple drop points — the dorsal area, lumbar region and pelvic area — providing the foundation for the common chiropractic adjusting tables many DCs use today.
Today’s chiropractic adjusting tables
Tables have changed significantly in past years, making advancements in comfort and technology, and improving standards. As you shop for tables, take time to check out the various manufacturers, read their online reviews, and select a company with a track record of providing quality products.
To view the latest in chiropractic tables and options for doctors of chiropractic go to www.chiroeco.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CHEC_10_2020_FULL-2.pdf.
