Adam Thomas has shared a deeply emotional update on his ongoing battle with rheumatoid arthritis, expressing his frustration and exhaustion with the condition. 

The 36-year-old actor, known for his roles in Waterloo Road and Emmerdale, 

took to Instagram on Monday to reveal the toll the disease has taken on both his physical and mental health.

A Raw and Honest Struggle

Posting a black-and-white photo of himself lying on a massage bed while undergoing LED treatment, Thomas admitted that living with rheumatoid arthritis has been a constant battle. 

He described the difficulty of maintaining a consistent exercise routine, revealing how the disease frequently disrupts his progress.

“This disease really does f**k with your head, especially when you’re trying to shift some weight and get into a routine of exercise!” he wrote.

The actor, who was diagnosed in 2023, added that the setbacks caused by his condition have been overwhelming.

“Just take my pain away, please! I’ve suffered enough now! I’m really trying to hold myself together, but it’s not easy!” he pleaded.

Thomas encouraged others struggling with chronic pain to practice self-care and focus on recovery, acknowledging that some days are simply too difficult to train or stay active.

“Just one of those days… Keep fighting, people. On the days where we can’t train, we have to take care of ourselves—self-care and recovery,” he wrote.

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term autoimmune disease that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. While there is currently no cure, various treatments aim to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Thomas first publicly revealed his diagnosis in August 2023, just as he was preparing to compete in Strictly Come Dancing. At the time, he admitted that the pain had made it difficult to walk, posing a major challenge ahead of his dancing debut in September.

Since then, he has kept fans updated on his journey with the illness, often sharing both the highs and lows of living with chronic pain.

Unbearable Pain and the Search for Relief

In October, Thomas shared that his pain had become “unbearable”, revealing that he could barely walk due to the worsening effects of the disease.

“The pain is pretty unbearable at the moment, it’s as if my whole body is seizing up! The pain was bad before, but it’s a lot worse now,” he wrote at the time.

The actor also opened up about the challenges of finding effective treatment. He had previously been taking methotrexate injections, a medication commonly prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, but he eventually decided to stop due to the severe side effects.

“I wish I never came off the methotrexate because I would take that pain over this every day of the week!” he admitted.

After trying steroid injections, which only provided temporary relief, Thomas began a new medication—but he explained that it could take up to 12 weeks to show any results, leaving him unsure of how to cope in the meantime.

“I’ve just started my new medication today, which takes 12 weeks to take effect, and even then, it might not work. So I’m not too sure what I can do to ease the pain until then,” he shared.

The Daily Struggles of Living with Chronic Pain

Thomas’ Instagram updates have given fans an intimate look at the physical and emotional toll of his condition. He revealed that simple tasks like getting dressed and driving to work have become extremely difficult.

“I couldn’t even get dressed this morning on my own. I couldn’t drive to work. I mean, I can barely walk, and my wrists and fingers feel like they’re broken—that’s no exaggeration!” he wrote.

The actor admitted that he had a “little cry” due to the frustration and helplessness of his situation, adding that he wasn’t seeking sympathy but rather hoping to raise awareness for others suffering from the same condition.

“I’m not saying this for a sob story or for sympathy. I just want to bring awareness to this disease and what so many others are going through—the good, the bad, the ugly. I’m lucky I have a great support system, and not many do. To anyone who is going through the same thing and is alone—I see you, I feel you!” he wrote.

A Message of Strength and Positivity

Despite the overwhelming pain, Thomas remains determined to keep fighting. He encouraged his followers to reach out to loved ones who may be struggling and to remind them that they are not alone.

“It’s going to get better—don’t give up! If you know anyone who’s suffering, just give them a call and check in,” he urged.

As he continues to explore new treatments and adjust to his condition, Thomas is focused on staying strong and hopeful.

“No one will understand what we are going through—it’s tough, some good days, some bad—but we can’t let it beat us. I refuse to give in!” he declared.

While his battle with rheumatoid arthritis remains challenging, Thomas’ openness about his struggles has resonated with many, shedding light on the reality of living with chronic illness and the importance of resilience.

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