Strictly Come Dancing star Adam Thomas revealed he is continuing to undergo medical tests as he attempts to get his rheumatoid arthritis “under control”.
The former Emmerdale star revealed he was diagnosed with the chronic disease, which causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, earlier this year.
Now the Waterloo Road actor, who is partnered with Luba Mushtuk on this year’s series, shared an update about his health on Tuesday.
Sharing a selfie of himself in hospital prior to a blood test, Thomas penned on his Instagram Story: “One day I will get my arthritis under control but until then... more bloods and more doctors. Staying strong.”
Prior to his appearance on the BBC ballroom stalwart, the actor admitted that his rheumatoid arthritis has “set him back” on the dance floor.
Despite his excitement about attempting Latin and ballroom routines, the 35-year-old explained that he doesn’t know if he’ll be physically able to attempt any of the dances dazzling lifts.
He told The Standard: “We’ll see. I’m going to try my hardest, but look, it is going to set me back a little bit. I’m just going to try my best.”
“I’ve been through physio with the guys, they know what I can and cannot do,” Thomas added about how his diagnosis might impact his performances on the series.
“I’m just going to have to take it easy, and hopefully it’ll hold up. But right now, I’m in no pain. So it’s all positive.”
In August, Thomas spoke about his diagnosis for the first time when he confirmed his Strictly stint, which he said he signed up to “be able to move again”.
He wrote at the time: “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 travelled 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 [their] life get… but that’s not the case, clearly!
“Some days are better than others and I’m not going to lie, it’s been hard not being able to train properly. It has had a huge knock on effect for me personally, but not only that for my family too!” he 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 I am up for the challenge and cannot wait to get on that dance floor!”
Last week, Thomas earned 26 out of 40 for his and Luba’s jive to A-Ha’s hit Take On Me during Movies Week.
