Adam Thomas shares health diagnosis ahead of Strictly appearance

Adam Thomas was announced as a contestant on this year's Strictly Come Dancing, earlier this week, along with the line-up which includes Angela Rippon, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, and Les Dennis.

However, just days after the exciting announcement, the former Emmerdale actor has revealed a health diagnosis in an Instagram post.

Telling his fans that he has been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, the actor who turns 35 today (11th August), shared a photo of himself with his family writing: 'As much as I act like a kid, my body is telling another story…

'I’ve been in a lot of pain since January, it started with my knees and then traveled to my wrists, fingers and now ankles and toes. I never knew what was happening and finally after several blood tests and back and forth to doctors and hospitals, I’ve been diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis!

'I thought that was something people, later on in there life get… but that’s not the case, clearly!'. (sic)

He went on to reveal that it's been a tough year, and he hasn't been able to train properly saying: 'But some days are better than others and am not going to lie, it’s been hard not being able to train properly, it’s has had a huge knock on effect for me personally, but not only that for my family too!!'

Adam continued: 'The reason I signed up to strictly is because I just want to be able to move again, get fit and do it, all with a smile on my face!

'It really couldn’t have come at a better time I’m a firm believer of everything happening for a reason, and I know the journey I’ve been on was meant to happen, to never take small things in life for granted! …Like going for a run, playing with my kids and just being able to walk with no pain!

'I know it’s going to be tough and I’ve definitely got my work cut out but am up for the challenge and can not wait to get on that dance floor!!

'I suppose the reason am telling you this is if anyone out there, is suffering what ever your situation… stay strong get the right help where and when you can!

'But most importantly stay positive! ❤️'. (sic)

According to the NHS website: 'Rheumatoid Arthritis is a long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. The condition usually affects the hands, feet and wrists.'

Adam is known for playing roles in Emmerdale and Waterloo Road, as well as starring in his own show along with his brothers Ryan and Thomas, with their dad, called Absolutely India: Mancs in Mumbai.

See the full line-up for this year's Strictly Come Dancing:

Now read:

Adam Thomas announced for Strictly Come Dancing

Strictly Come Dancing 2023: Everything we know so far about the series

Strictly Come Dancing: All of the confirmed celebs taking part

How to listen to heat radio:

If your favourite music icons are the Spice Girls and your favourite Ks are Kylie and the Kardashians, you need heat Radio in your life! heat Radio is portable, so you can listen to us on the move. Simply download our app from your phone’s app store, listen online at heatradio.com and at heatworld.com. We’re on all the smart speakers too, just say “play heat Radio".

• adam thomas
• strictly come dancing