A.S. Face 2220: Janine

At age 30 I was finally diagnosed after 13 years of being misdiagnosed with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. I sought chiropractic care as a teenager but really had back pain long before that. After seeing only male doctors, my female rheumatologist ordered a test for the HLA B27 protein and I was positive confirming that my high CRP and joint inflammation/damage was indeed AS. I can’t help but think what damage could have been avoided if treated correctly in my twenties. Acceptance has helped me deal with the emotional part of this disease and though I have several fusions I try to live my life to its fullest.
Dear Janine,
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Sincerely Cookie