When buying a treatment table, one number comes up quickly: 2, 3, 4 or 5 sections. This refers to the movable parts of the table surface that can be adjusted individually. The more sections, the more flexibly you can position your patients, but more is not automatically better. What matters is which treatments you offer. This guide helps you find the right number of sections.
What do the sections actually mean?
A section is an adjustable part of the table. On a simple table only the head section tilts; on a fully equipped table the head, back, seat and leg sections as well as additional arm rests all move independently. More sections means more positioning options, and usually a higher price too. Height adjustment is separate from this and is available on practically all therapy and treatment tables.
2 sections: the solid entry point
On a 2-section table the head section can be adjusted, often with a face opening. It is stable, affordable and completely sufficient for many classic massages. If you mostly treat patients lying down and do not need complex positioning, this is a good, economical start.
3 sections: the flexible all-rounder
The 3-section table adds a separately adjustable leg section or an arm rest. This lets you bend the legs or sit the upper body up comfortably. This version is the popular compromise between flexibility and price, and it covers most treatments in massage and physiotherapy practices.
4 sections: for more demanding positioning
Four sections usually provide two separate arm rests plus a separately adjustable head and leg section. That is ideal if you frequently need changing positions, for example in physiotherapy or when treating the spine. The patient can be positioned precisely and comfortably.
5 sections: maximum adaptability
The 5-section table is the professional model. Alongside adjustable head and leg sections there are two separate arm rests, and many models can also be tilted. If you cover a broad treatment spectrum or want particularly individual positioning, this version plays to its strengths.
Overview: which number of sections for which purpose?
| Sections | Adjustable | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Head section | classic massage, entry level, small budget |
| 3 | Head and leg section (or arm rest) | massage and physiotherapy practices, flexible all-rounder |
| 4 | Head, legs, two arm rests | physiotherapy, changing positions |
| 5 | Head, legs, arm rests, often tilt | broad treatment spectrum, professional use |
Which table suits which treatment?
The rule of thumb: choose the number of sections by your treatments, not by the price. If you mainly carry out relaxing massages, 2 to 3 sections are enough. If you work in physiotherapy or rehabilitation with changing positions and spinal positioning, 4 or 5 sections are the better choice. Also consider whether the patient needs to be able to sit up and whether you want to bend the legs deliberately, as that often rules out smaller models.
The drive type also plays a role. We explain whether to adjust electrically or hydraulically in our guide Electric or hydraulic treatment table?. You will find a general buying checklist under What should you pay attention to when buying a therapy couch?
Conclusion
More sections means more flexibility, but also more investment. For simple massages 2 to 3 sections are ideal; for demanding positioning in physiotherapy and rehabilitation, 4 or 5 are worthwhile. Base your choice on the treatments you offer and you will make the right decision. Take your time and browse our therapy and treatment tables; we are also happy to advise you personally.
Frequently asked questions
How many sections should a treatment table have?
For classic massages, 2 to 3 sections are enough. For physiotherapy, rehabilitation and changing positions, 4 or 5 sections make sense.
What is the difference between 3 and 4 sections?
A 3-section table usually has an additional adjustable leg section or an arm rest. With 4 sections you generally get two separate arm rests plus a separately adjustable head and leg section.
Is a 5-section treatment table worth it for a beginner?
Only if you cover a broad treatment spectrum with demanding positioning from the start. For simple massages a 2- or 3-section table is more economical.
