Do massages really relax you?

[Mike]

Hey... I'm 18 and have neck back(kind of around the spine) and shoulder pain. Needless to say, I shouldn't be feeling tired + in pain all the time (whether I get 4 or 12 hrs of sleep I feel worn out). Furthermore I don't show it, but I'm really high strung. Like I'll smile and laugh if something bad happens but in my mind i'll be like "fml fml fml fml fml" *insert chibi version of me running around in circles frantically*
Main point being is that I'm wondering if a massage would "help", and it's not just some person awkwardly touching me for x amount of minutes I could be spending elsewhere.
Also anyone have any tips on price + type? I know this place near me but I think the cheapest one is like 40 bucks and an amateur does it (like a student. It costs like 20 bucks extra to get a pro... f that I don't care if the student strikes a nerve and I'm paralyzed I'm not paying 20 extra bucks)

 

[Amy]

Yes massages are great for relaxation. but if you have a tight back or whatever while they're getting rid of the knots it can really hurt... but after it feels a lot better xD