Adam Thomas emotionally reflected on his journey of overcoming psoriatic arthritis as he stumbled upon his old arthritis gloves during a New Year’s cleanup. The discovery served as a poignant reminder of the pain and struggles he endured while coping with the condition, highlighting the progress he has made in his recovery.
The former Emmerdale actor was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis at 34, which caused severe pain that often impeded his daily activities like walking. Initially misdiagnosed, Thomas shared his ordeal of enduring months of pain before the correct diagnosis was made. Leveraging his online presence, particularly on platforms like Instagram, where he has a substantial following, Thomas aims to raise awareness about the condition.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Thomas expressed his emotional reaction upon finding his arthritis gloves, recounting how they were once essential for managing his daily pain. He emphasized his gratitude for being pain-free for months now but acknowledged the lasting impact pain can have on one’s life beyond the physical realm.
With a compassionate message to his 1.2 million followers, Thomas stressed the importance of self-care and supporting others facing similar challenges. Encouraging those dealing with chronic pain or arthritis, he reassured them that they are not alone and advocated for raising awareness about the disease as part of his purpose.
Psoriatic arthritis, a chronic condition characterized by joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, is closely linked to psoriasis, a skin condition. Reports from healthcare sources like the NHS and Bupa highlight that psoriatic arthritis typically affects individuals between 35 and 55 but can manifest at any age, including childhood.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and skin issues, underscoring the complex nature of the condition and the importance of early detection and management.