Amy Schumer has found an unconventional way to help her recover from the pain she has suffered as a result of a herniated disk: kicking butt. The 37-year-old actress revealed on Instagram this week that after spending the last several months in debilitating pain, she is rebuilding her strength by boxing.
“About 7 months ago I was in excruciating back and hip pain,” Schumer wrote on Instagram. “From old volleyball and surfing injuries I have a herniated disc, a bulging disc and a labral tear in my hip.”
Schumer posted a montage of videos and photos on the social media site. In the first, she can be seen (and hilariously heard, of course!) getting an epidural from a physician to treat the pain. In the proceeding clip, she gives fans a glimpse of her workout, throwing punches at one of her trainers.
“These great people nursed me back to health and made me stronger than ever,” she said. “I want to thank [trainer Tim DiFrancesco] @tdathletesedge for pushing me to recovery beyond what I thought possible … [Steven Frank] @stevenfrankboxing had been my boxing trainer for 7 years.”
She explained that her trainers enabled her to feel better again, that they “laughed and cried together,” when she had “major breakthroughs” doing things she never thought she would be able to again.
The point of her post was to encourage others dealing with chronic pain to actively search for a solution. “You don’t have to live with pain. Do the work to feel better. It’s worth it!” she said.
She also pointed out that everyone should have the right to healthcare needed for recovery. “I know I’m lucky I have the time and money to heal. Everyone should be entitled to great care. Everyone. Period.”
While boxing might not be for everyone, other exercises that can help with chronic pain include walking, stretching, strength training, yoga and everyday activities such as playing with your kids, mopping and gardening. However, before starting any new workout - especially if you have any preexisting conditions - it’s always recommended to discuss it with your health care professional.
Schumer's message is an important reminder that not everybody has to live with pain, but that it might not go away on its own.
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