Adam Thomas opens up about 'painful' secret health battle as fans say 'you've got this' ahead of Strictly stint

Adam Thomas has opened up about a "painful" secret health battle ahead of his 35th birthday and stint on Strictly Come Dancing. The Waterloo Road star shared that he has been diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis, a long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints.

Manchester-born Adam said his symptoms started with his knees before moving to his wrists, fingers and now ankles and toes. He said his diagnosis came after several blood tests and visits to doctors and hospitals.

Earlier this week, the actor delighted his fans and celebrity pals when it was revealed he's signed up to the 2023 run of the BBC One dance contest. He said his condition meant he had been unable to train properly - but fans were quick to offer their support and reassurance.

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Adam posted a family snap with wife Caroline and their two children to Instagram and told followers: "Well it’s my birthday tomorrow and I turn 35!! How did that happen, does this mean I should stop acting like a kid now haha. 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! It’s been a tough old year but …Finally I’m on the right plan now! Finally getting it under control. For now! But some days are better than others and am not going to lie, it’s been hard