I am 81 and have been battling ankylosing spondylitis for most of my life. I try to be tough as my mother and grandfather were but I am miserable. I have had spinal surgery which helped. My doctor gives me Norco which, for me, is a sugar pill. I know doctors are afraid to give pain pills but there must be something that can help. Until recent years, I have been very active as well as health-conscious (no alcohol, smoking, green salad every day, etc.). I have come to hate my doctor. I take Advil regularly and get blood tests. Do far, kidneys are okay. Any suggestions? Marilyn Lindeman