Suitable Table Important
In giving these treatments, a suitable table is a great help. Treatment may be given on almost any kind of a table, or on a bed or couch, but the operator can always work more effect¬ively if he has a table of the proper height and width. The patient will also be more comfortable and will relax better. The table should be long and wide enough to hold the patient without any parts of his body projecting beyond its edges; but it should not be any wider than is necessary, because, in some of the movements, the patient straddles the table, and too wide a spread of the legs will be uncomfortable. The table should be well padded, but not so soft that the patient sinks into it.
For the operator’s sake the table should be about as high as his hips, as most of the movements can then be administered without much bending or stretching. An adjustable table is convenient, but not necessary. If the operator wishes to get well above the patient, lie can stand on a box or stool. Both operator and patient, especially the latter, should be loosely and comfortably dressed. Whenever possible, it is well for the patient to be stripped, so as to permit the greatest freedom of motion, and so that the direct spinal manipulation may be applied to the bare skin. If something must be worn, a one-piece bathing-suit will do very “ell. Treatment can be given to a patient wearing a gymnasium costume, or stripped to the waist, or when fully clothed if necessary, but unless the feet are not to lie treated, the shoes should always lie removed. Doctors applying these corrective movements to female pa¬tients usually have them wear pajamas or a kimono which opens down the back. When exercise as well as manipulation is to be given, a minimum of clothing is essential. In this case, also, it is particularly important that there be plenty of fresh air in the room.