Carrie Ann Inaba Navigates Health Challenges Beyond the DWTS Ballroom
Carrie Ann Inaba's health journey hasn't always been a perfect performance.
Though the Dancing With the Stars judge reliably brings her vibrant spirit, constructive critiques, and crucial scores to the ABC reality show's ballroom each week, Inaba has faced various health challenges that have occasionally kept her away from filming.
Before the season 34 debut on September 16, 2025, Inaba shared that she wouldn't be able to judge the opening episode, citing that she felt “quite unwell.”
“I am recuperating and eagerly anticipate returning in good health next week,” she posted on Instagram. “Meanwhile, I extend my best wishes to all the competitors. I will be rooting for you from home. Enjoy the show, everyone!”
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While further specifics regarding Inaba's condition were not immediately disclosed, the renowned choreographer has openly discussed her health history over time.
Continue reading to discover more about Inaba's experiences off the dance floor:
Carrie Ann Receives Spinal Stenosis Diagnosis
During her tenure as a judge on Dancing With the Stars season 4 in 2007, Inaba received a diagnosis of spinal stenosis.
“I believe it began when I transitioned from a highly active lifestyle to a sedentary one,” Inaba shared with People in 2019. “I recall visiting the doctor, unable to move my head. I endured agonizing pain for several years.”
As per the Mayo Clinic, spinal stenosis occurs when the internal space within the spinal column narrows. This constriction can exert pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves extending from it.
While some individuals with this condition remain asymptomatic, others might encounter discomfort, a prickling sensation, insensitivity, and muscle feebleness.
Carrie Ann's Sjӧgren’s Syndrome Diagnosis
Half a dozen years after her spinal stenosis diagnosis, Inaba was diagnosed with Sjӧgren’s syndrome, an incurable autoimmune condition known to induce pain and exhaustion.
“It was incapacitating,” Inaba revealed to People. “The pain was so intense; my focus was solely on getting through. I needed to remain in bed three days a week, and I'm incredibly lucky my job allowed for that flexibility. Some days, I was too drained to even prepare my coffee.”
This autoimmune illness causes your glands to generate insufficient moisture, as stated by the Cleveland Clinic. It can also lead to persistent dryness across the body, particularly affecting the eyes and oral cavity.
Carrie Ann's Journey with Lupus
Via a social media update in October 2023, Inaba offered insight into her experience living with a lupus diagnosis.
“Following years of questioning my persistent symptoms, I now understand that I live with lupus — an autoimmune condition where the immune system targets the body, leading to inflammation that can eventually harm various body parts, including organs,” she shared on Instagram then. “I actively work to avert my lupus flares through adequate rest and stress management, among other strategies.”
Inaba is among the approximately 25 percent of lupus sufferers who also contend with fibromyalgia. The Mayo Clinic characterizes this as a chronic condition featuring widespread bodily discomfort.
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Carrie Ann's Approach to Managing Her Conditions
On her personal wellness platform, The Carrie Ann Conversations, Inaba openly discussed her philosophy for navigating autoimmune conditions.
“Upon my initial diagnosis, some advised me to conceal my challenges, but I’ve discovered that being transparent about my requirements and realities is consistently more beneficial than remaining quiet,” Inaba penned. “I firmly believe in disseminating my experiences, my remedies, and the practices that have supported me with anyone who might benefit — this is the foundation of community.”
Within her commentary, Inaba detailed several personal strategies for managing her chronic illnesses, yet advised her audience to always consult a qualified medical professional for health guidance.
