Saw the discussion of this subject in the CAF Medical Group forum, but thought I should reply here as I am not a client of CAF health and medical services.
As a negotiated benefit, I believe registered massage therapy makes for a more productive employee, and a healthier retirement.
Not least of which, it shows the employer is serious about the Wellness Program aka "Fit for Duty".
I say that as a regular client, not a practitioner.
I read this, and have experienced some of the benefits. I still do as a pensioner.
For people with high stress jobs, I believe it is particularly effective.
Massage therapy benefits people of all ages, including the injured, ill and the stressed. The strength of massage therapy lies in preventing illness and painful conditions before they develop, and cannot be overlooked. Massage therapy can be used in the treatment of both acute and chronic stages of conditions.
https://secure.rmtao.com/massage_therapy/the_benefits_of_mtThe effects of therapeutic massage include:
•Reducing or eliminating pain or stress by releasing muscular tension
•Improving blood circulation and joint mobility
•Increasing lymphatic drainage to promote detoxification
•Reducing edema
•Improving immune system functioning
•Reducing emotional stress level, such as depression and anxiety
•Sedating blood pressure and nervous system
•Improving sleep quality
•Increasing body awareness
Some conditions where an RMT massage can prove beneficial:
•Anxiety and depression
•Back, leg, and neck pain
•Cancer
•Carpal tunnel syndrome (repetitive strain)
•Chronic Fatigue syndrome
•Dislocations
•Fibromyalgia
•Fractures and edema
•Headaches
•Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and bursitis
•Insomnia
•Kyphosis and Scoliosis
•Multiple sclerosis
•Muscle tension and spasm
•Parkinson’s disease
•Post-surgical rehabilitation
•Palliative care
•Pregnancy and labour support
•Sports injuries
•Strains and sprains
•Stress and stress related conditions
•Stroke
•Tendinitis
•Whiplash