hi cpsdwhoa~ i used to use a little electro-shock device called a TENS unit. it delivers a low level shock between two little electrodes, and gradually tires the muscle out, so it is 'forced' to relax. i bet it would be better than a massage, because it's an inexpensive investment, and you can use it whenever you want~! here's a link to one, on Amazon, so you can see what i'm talking about... i used to have that chronic tension in my neck and back, and it really helped~

Electric Shock Therapy for Muscles: Amazon.com