Adam Thomas has issued a health update as he said his life has completely changed. The former Emmerdale star has been open with fans about his battle with psoriatic arthritis.
The soap actor was diagnosed with the condition in 2023 when he was aged 34. Now 36, he has taken to social media today to issue a positive update on his battle.
He said on Instagram: “These last few weeks… my life completely changed! As some of you know, I’ve been battling psoriatic arthritis for the past three years and it’s been tough.
“Constant pain, constant struggle. But today I can say something I honestly never thought I would… I’m pain free!! Not a bit better, not improving but ZERO pain! None. For the first time in YEARS.
“A few weeks ago I had my first biologic injection and it changed my life literally overnight. I know that for most people it can take weeks to work, but for me… it was instant. And I’m still in shock.”I mean I know that this is not a cure and I’m still doing all I can to support my body naturally through food, movement, and rest. But this has given me something I haven’t felt in a long time!”Now it’s time to rebuild, mentally, physically, emotionally. This next chapter is all about prioritising my wellbeing, becoming the happiest, healthiest version of me… and finally enjoying life again. Let’s goo!!!”
The actor’s arthritis began when he injured his knees while training for a Hyrox competition. The issue continued as a couple of weeks after the injury Adam woke up and his wrists were in pain, he said: “I genuinely felt like I had broken my wrists. The pain was that severe.”
When Adam had his bloods taken, inflammation was found inside his joints which led to a referral to a rheumatoid specialist before his final diagnosis of arthritis. Adam previously explained the pain he has been feeling.
Posting to his Instagram story, the former Emmerdale actor said: “This disease really does f*** with your head, especially when you’re trying to shift some weight and get into a routine of exercise.”
He revealed he is in a “constant battle” with “constant set backs” as he pleaded “just take my pain away please.” In a moving admission the Adam Barton star said “I’ve suffered enough now”.
Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. It’s a lifelong condition, but medicines can help manage these symptoms.
In January, the 36-year-old appeared on the This Morning sofa alongside Dr Zoe Williams, Adam told the presenters: “I used to think I was invincible and it turns out I’m not. It’s been a long journey.”
He told Cat and Ben “you have good days and you have bad days”. As part of his self-management, Adam took up an all-meat diet, which Dr Zoe commented is not advisable for the long-run due to potential nutrient shortfalls.
If the condition is not well managed, it can cause permanent damage to the joints including erosions. This is when the bones begin to slowly erode away because of the inflammation. Dr Zoe shared the condition can also affect the nails and bowel and eyes too. She added: “It’s really important it’s being monitored.”
Adam revealed his worries about the hereditary aspect of the disease: “That’s what worries me the most. My kids might possibly get this one day. So I’m doing everything and anything I can do now to try and find a blueprint, so if it does happen, then I can pass that information on.”