Hi Drewster,
Wanted to pop in and welcome you to KA. You've probably realized by now you have definitely come to the perfect place for knowledge and support when it comes to AS.
Looks like you've already gotten plenty of great info already, so you don't need any input from me, but I did want to mention...in case it wasn't already...
If your tested for the HLA-b27 gene and if it comes out negative, this does not mean that you do not have AS. There are plenty of people here who have tested negative and still have AS. Because they match the criteria for having AS they ended up with the diagnosis.
Also, just because someone tests postive for the gene doesn't mean they have AS or will ever have it.
You mentioned you wanted to have this done, so I wanted to warn you about this in case your thinking this could give you a definite answer.
I have to agree with others that it sounds like you do have AS.
Wish we could say it didn't sound like it, but we would rather be honest and help steer you in the right direction and help you get the treatment you need.
Anyway, hope you decide to stick around and get to know us all better and us you.
Good luck with finding a good rheumy!
Lisa
