I have tried massage, I had back problems from around 12yrs old and was actually warned that I most probably would be in a wheelchair by 25yrs old. Massage was very beneficial but I suffered an injury which resulted in damaged disks which often press on the nerves. Unfortunately it means that massage no longer helps but some physiotherapy helps but in order to release the server muscle spasms physio involves having someone dig their thumbs and fists into the muscles until they release it is extremely painful and leaves me covered in bruises and can't be done to often so meds are my only really option.