May
How to Choose the Right Exam Table for Your Practice Type
Choosing the right exam table is more than just selecting a piece of furniture—it’s an investment in efficiency, patient comfort, and clinical effectiveness. The wrong table can slow down your workflow, limit your care capabilities, and even present safety risks. That’s why it’s essential to find a table tailored to your practice’s unique needs.
At Arrowhead Medical, we offer a wide range of new and certified pre-owned exam tables from trusted brands like Armedica and Hausmann, built to support various specialties. Whether you’re outfitting a general clinic, physical therapy space, or specialty practice, here’s everything you need to know to make the right decision.
1. Start with Your Practice Type
The first step in choosing an exam table is understanding how your clinical environment and treatment style influence what features you need. Here’s a breakdown by common practice types:
Primary Care / General Practice
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Key Features to Look For: Paper roll holder, stirrups (for gynecological exams), ample storage drawers, easy height access.
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Best Options: Manual or power exam tables with drawers; ADA-compliant models.
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Top Brands: Hausmann, Armedica
Physical Therapy & Rehab
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Key Features: Hi-Lo functionality, adjustable sections (head, leg, and back), sturdy weight capacity, easy mobility.
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Best Options: Armedica Hi-Lo treatment tables, multi-section electric tables.
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Bonus: Some tables double as therapy plinths to save space and cost.
2. Manual vs. Power Tables: Which Is Best?
Manual Exam Tables
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Pros: Lower cost, simple mechanics, fewer maintenance concerns.
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Cons: Limited adjustability, not ideal for patients with mobility challenges.
Powered Exam Tables
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Pros: Seamless height adjustment, better ADA compliance, improved patient access.
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Cons: Higher initial investment, may require more frequent servicing.
Best for Busy Practices: If your clinic sees a high volume of patients or treats individuals with limited mobility, powered tables offer a smoother workflow and better patient experience.
3. Upholstery and Durability
Exam tables must endure years of wear, spills, and cleanings. Make sure your table features:
Antimicrobial, easy-clean upholstery
High-density foam padding for patient comfort
Tear-resistant surface for long-term durability
Tables from Armedica and Hausmann are known for their rugged upholstery materials and solid construction, which helps reduce long-term replacement costs.
4. Storage, Space, and Clinic Flow
Your exam room layout matters. Choose tables that:
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Offer integrated drawers or cabinet storage
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Include casters for easy repositioning (ideal for multi-use rooms)
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Match the size of your room—oversized tables can obstruct staff movement and workflow
For smaller offices, compact exam tables with fold-away features or dual functionality (such as storage and surface use) are excellent options.
5. ADA Compliance and Patient Accessibility
With growing focus on accessibility in healthcare, ADA-compliant tables are a smart, future-proof choice. Powered lift tables help:
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Accommodate patients with mobility issues
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Meet legal requirements
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Prevent staff injuries related to patient transfers
Arrowhead Medical carries several ADA-compliant models from top brands, many of which are eligible for tax credits.
Final Thoughts: Match the Table to the Task
Choosing the right exam table is about more than price—it’s about finding the right features, durability, and patient experience that align with your daily workflow. Whether you’re building out a brand new practice or upgrading an aging setup, Arrowhead Medical is here to help you make the smart choice.
Explore Top Exam Tables Today
We carry a full selection of Armedica and Hausmann exam tables, along with other trusted brands—available in both new and certified pre-owned models.