I've only had one rheumy (been going to her for more about 11 years now). She was the one who discovered I had AS which not only helped me, but my dad as well. I'm glad you're new rheumy seems quite knowledgeable and competent in regards to AS.
Based on personal experience, wouldn't x-rays be the best judge of the damage on your joints? It was my x-rays that tipped off my rheumy to my AS as the damage was quite evident, so I suppose I may be biased. My rheumy does request MRI's sometimes, but really rarely. I think my last MRI was more than a year ago. Externally, it can be difficult to definitively tell the status of your joints since even though AS may not be active, if there was fusion, then there could be some pain there as well.
Well anyway, cheers to you for being able to get such a great rheumy. Hope things keep getting better for you
bluboi
