Andie MacDowell opens up about health struggles and life changes

Andie MacDowell, the renowned actress famous for Four Weddings and a Funeral, recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with piriformis syndrome, a condition that places pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to inflammation and sharp pain.

In a conversation on The Drew Barrymore Show, Andie shared how she initially experienced severe pain radiating down her leg, which led her to fear the need for hip surgery.

At 66 years old, Andie acknowledged that the issue became more severe due to overdoing her workouts, particularly using her stationary bike. "I pushed myself too hard and ended up straining my knees and hips," she explained. "I even began to think my body was falling apart."

Fortunately, surgery wasn’t required, but Andie had to adopt a new daily exercise routine focused on strengthening her hips and preventing future pain flare-ups.

"I'm amazed at how effective my treatment has been," she expressed, relieved. "The good news is that my joints are still in great condition."

Aside from focusing on her health, Andie also made a significant life change by leaving the fast-paced lifestyle of Hollywood behind for a quieter, more peaceful life in South Carolina.

"When my children moved out, I experienced a huge emptiness," Andie admitted, referring to her three children—Rainey, 35, Margaret, 30, and Justin, 38, from her marriage to Paul Qualley. "My daughter Margaret kept telling me that this should be the best phase of my life, but I just couldn’t feel it."

Since relocating, Andie feels she’s discovered a new sense of joy.

"Now, I’m truly savoring life," she said. "I feel better than I have in years."