Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that causes pain and stiffness primarily in the back, buttocks, neck, hips and shoulders. Symptoms usually start by the time an affected individual reaches the 20's or 30's. AS can be a cause of chronic low back pain, and some female patients are initially misdiagnosed with fibromyalgia. About 90% of patients with this condition will be positive for the HLA-B27 gene. This gene can be detected with a simple blood test. Relatives of patients with HLA-B27 positive AS have up to a 20% chance of also developing AS. The diagnosis is made by physicial examination, blood work and xrays. Patients now have many medication options available to treat this condition.
Choosing Your San Antonio Ankylosing Spondylitis Specialist
It's not easy selecting the right doctor who will take the time to understand your particular needs so that they can better help you understand your condition and its treatment. So it is imperative that you ask the right questions:
- Does your specialist have first-hand experience at serving those most affected by Ankylosing Spondylitis?
- Is your specialist recognized and respected by her peers as an active patient advocate?
- Is your specialist board certified in both Rheumatology and Internal Medicine?
Dr. Chelsea Clinton has a positive answer for each of these questions. Dr. Clinton's biography attests to her dedication. Inspired by the world-class rheumatologists she worked with at The University of Texas Medical School, Dr. Clinton has dedicated her career to patients who suffer from rheumatologic conditions.
Please call the office at (210) 591-0688 for more information or to make an appointment.