I spent about a decade seeing my doctor about back pain and foot pain. After he had referred me to several foot specialists, I saw a rheumatologist who diagnosed me in 5 minutes. This included a blood test4 that showed I carry the gene hla b27. t Working through years of pain and assuming that the pain was job-related, I was relieved to have a diagnosis.

Took me 20+ years for proper diagnosis

HI, I had a long drawn out time getting a diagnosis. It's a long story, lol so best to check out my bio!

I did at fifteen paralyzed left lower body told unsure diagnosis. Result left side some muscle loss ,brace left leg, balance problems, nerve issues, and inconvenience bladder. I worked to walk again with a walker and the brace. A few months later able to walk again no aids. My balance never the same again. My vision was effected on the right side. About 23 years later started shots lower back every 3 months. I worked as a nurse for 17 years until back surgery at 40. After unable to work . I did get disability 2 years later. Then at 42 left knee total replacement. I was 48 almost right knee total replacement. My neck and spine has several things wrong. Lumbar disc removed and rods and pins did help. In the last 3 years spondylitis diagnosed and advanced osteoarthritis with fibromaglia. I now have a brace boot to help left ankle stability. Also 2 years ago told it was a stroke that might have caused it all at fifteen. I have the fibromaglia and nerve pain managed after some time. I am 49 walk with a boot , limp, balance issues. Unable to stand in one spot for more then ten minutes. But, I in the last year non longer use a quad cane. I am still learning what works and not daily.
There a set backs. I am still going to the best I can each day. Amen