Bobert I hope you're getting this sorted, I'm sworn off the pipes at the moment because I've got tendonitis in my shoulder. It has been three weeks since I've played them at all - the bellows action hurts like billy-o. I don't know if that's what caused it in the first place or if it was my day job (bike mechanic), both things make it hurt. Had a few days off work and a lot of Ibuprofen and it's getting much better, but I miss my pipes... :-( the practice chanter just ain't the same. I shall try this heat rub stuff Kat mentioned, it's got to be worth a go I reckon.