JoMar, I will def look into the possibility of seeing a DC here in the Tucson area- will have a lot of research to do, but it seems I have a lot of time on my hands lately (have had a persistant cold/cough for more than a week now.. delightful.)

Pix- I will ask to Dr tmrw if he can put in the auth for the ultrasounds/doppler that you've suggested. As far as EMG studies go, I am not surprised that many have a normal EMG. In fact, I have been DX'd with a 100% subluxed (dislocated) ulnar nerve in my left elbow along with snapping triceps syndrome.
If you look up the symtoms and definition- this DX describes most of my feelings associated with my hand. However, I say most, not all. It is completely clear to me that there is a vascular compression on the left side as well, not to mention the right side (with a 60% subluxed ulnar nerve as well.)
But I am in the hunt to find which one needs attention first. I'm leading towards the venous/arterial issue.
I have had xrays of the chest/c spine, ect. No cervical ribs or defects in other structures.

As far as vascular studies go- I haven't had anything done other than the doppler from 08 and the one that I will have completed tomorrow. I am anxious, though I don't know that I need to be, to ask the DR tomorrow for additional studies (like the ones you've suggested.) The Dr last week seemed to be incredibly sure of my symptoms, after a hands on exam and my history to say what was going on here, and no matter what- surgery will fix it!!

Does anyone have any information on how not to doubt a DRs findings but to have them order another test to make you (the patient) feel more comfortable that all the "T"s have been crossed??

Thanks in advance,
Jocelyn