Powerlifter Ryan Stills secures sixth world title following shoulder replacement
Two years after undergoing shoulder replacement surgery, athlete Ryan Stills has won three gold medals at the IPF World Masters Championships.
Ryan Stills has claimed three gold medals at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Masters Championships, marking his sixth world title. The result is notable given that Stills underwent a total shoulder arthroplasty just two years ago, a surgery that initially threatened to end his competitive career.
Recovery from a shoulder replacement is particularly demanding for powerlifters due to the significant joint stress involved in the sport. Stills’ return to elite-level competition provides a case study in rehabilitation and strength training post-surgery. Medical experts have often cautioned against heavy overhead or compound lifting following such procedures.
Stills competes representing the Vegan Strong PlantBuilt team and has attributed his recovery to a strictly plant-based nutritional regimen. His performance in Portland reinforces his status in the masters-level powerlifting circuit.