HI G-mom, although i cannot stand to be massaged I asked hubby last week to massage my rib cage and armpit (lighty). After just 3-4 minutes I had excruciating pain. I have heard massage is good for us...but i found the pain unbearable and was sore for a cpl days. I am the same way with both shoulders also. MY vasc surgeon believes the pain is from the nerve compression. I'm not sure which nerve. Hope this helps, Ihtos