In early 2025, a competitive powerlifter was diagnosed with bone cancer, leading to the amputation of their arm. The athlete has since returned to training and competed in a regional powerlifting event in August 2025, using a prosthetic limb.
What Happened
The powerlifter, whose identity is not disclosed, experienced persistent arm pain during training, initially attributed to overuse. An MRI revealed an aggressive osteosarcoma in the upper arm, necessitating amputation to prevent metastasis. Surgery occurred in March 2025, followed by chemotherapy. By September 2025, the athlete resumed training with a custom prosthetic and competed in a regional powerlifting meet, setting a personal bench press record.
Reasons Cited
Medical professionals determined amputation was critical due to the tumor’s proximity to major nerves and blood vessels, a common necessity in osteosarcoma cases where limb-sparing surgery is not feasible. Post-surgical chemotherapy was administered to ensure no cancer spread, per hospital protocols.
Expert Opinions
Dr. John Lee, an oncologist, stated, “Amputation for osteosarcoma prioritizes survival when tumors threaten critical structures.” Prosthetist Emily Carter noted, “Myoelectric prosthetics allow precise movements, enabling amputee athletes to adapt lifts like the bench press.” A 2023 study in Prosthetics and Orthotics International found that resistance training improves strength in 80% of lower-limb amputees, with similar principles applying to upper-limb cases. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research reported that amputee powerlifters can achieve elite performance with modified techniques, as seen in cases like a transtibial amputee squatting 205 kg.
Context
Powerlifting injuries occur at a rate of 1.0–4.4 per 1,000 training hours, though amputations are rare. Amputee athletes, like Bobby Body, who won national bench press titles after leg amputation, demonstrate resilience. Advanced prosthetics, such as bone-anchored implants, enhance functionality, supporting competitive returns.