I am female, 50 and HLA-B27 negative.

I have suffered with back pain for 25+ years and over the past 10 yrs my GP refused to send me to a Rheumy as I am B27- Luckily for me a Sports Dr looked a bit closer into my problems, did some blood tests which showed a high CRP and referred me.

I have pain in my neck, shoulders, chest, hips, SI joints, most of back, knees, ankles, elbows and 1 toe. The Rheumy said I had SpA on my first visit, subsequent MRI and Xrays confirmed AS.

I can't tolerate the anti-inflammatories and have just started Simponi. I am waiting to feel better.

I am forever greatful to the Sports Dr, for listening and to my Rheumy who believed my story and wanted to help.

It's the second time I've proven my GP wrong (I had a massive Thyroid multi nodule goiter but for years my GP disregarded my questions as the TSH blood test was normal)

Maybe I need to find a new GP.

Ankylosing Spondylitis, HLA B27-, Total Thyroidectomy, High Blood Pressure, Hiatus Hernia, Dry Eyes & Mouth, Stomach Issues, Enbrel, Thyroxine, Atacand, Pariet, Zantec, Panadol Osteo, Krill Oil, Vit D.