hey jenny, im also from the Uk. have had upperlimb symptoms fitting tos for almost 4 years have had physio and pain cons advise they think tos, however not yet formally diagnosed. i have been demanding referrals where i want and threatening to complain if i dont get what i want.....its hard work moving around the NHS system!. Also, as of this year we have the right to choose whichever hospital we want to be referred to in the whole of the UK...however gp's do try to pretend to be unaware of this - until the threat of a complaint is made - it is a very sorry state!

Anyway - hope that you make a good recovery - sounds like you had a very bad case of it - mine isnt as severe and prob more neuro related than vascular so the nhs will try to push me to the kerb but i keep bouncing back!

take care