Adam Thomas has shared a health update as he continues to battle arthritis. The former Emmerdale star has been vocal about his health struggles and the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with having the disease at such a young age.
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 severity of pain he has been feeling.
The soap actor was diagnosed with the condition in 2023 when he was aged 34. Now 36, he has taken to Instagram to shared an update. He wrote: “I lost hope… I never thought I’d get my old life back… I was wrong!
“To anyone struggling with arthritis and is lost and can’t seem to find hope… stay strong! It’s along and painful road but I promise you…you will!”
He continued: “Still putting in the work and focusing on diet and recovery as I’d like to think this disease can be cured naturally and one day I’d like to not have to take any meds but until then I want to bring hope to those who are suffering and also awareness to this disease as I feel like it’s not talked about enough!
“I see you, I feel you and I know how hard it can be, but don’t lose hope don’t lose yourself to this disease.” Comments left for Adam were supportive as people offered praise for the actor raising awareness.
Jadie commented: “Thank you for raising such awareness. My daughter is 6 and has arthritis and has done since she was 1. It needs highlighting more than it’s not just for old people.”
Marina added: “So very happy for you, Adam. Your post has really resonated with me. I was diagnosed age 5 (I’m now 58) and have been through many medications and pain over the years, so I completely understand the struggle.”
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 actor 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.”