Veteran Chris Reid Receives a Custom Prosthetic Arm

By Louis Cabana March 27, 2025

Veteran Chris Reid Receives a Custom Prosthetic Arm

In October 2024, we had the honor of taking arm impressions for one of our valiant Veterans, Chris Reid. A former U.S. Army sergeant, Chris bravely served in the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. Over the past year, he has been working closely with our expert clinicians, and we are thrilled to share that he recently received his new custom prosthetic arm—crafted by none other than our upper extremity specialist, Jamie Vandersea.

 Precision Crafting: The Arm Impression Process

Creating a well-fitted prosthetic begins with a meticulous impression process. To ensure cleanliness and accuracy, we start by wrapping the arm in cellophane before securing a nylon sleeve to the residual limb. Jamie carefully marks key anatomical points where bones protrude, ensuring that these details are transferred to the cast for a precise and comfortable fit.

The casting process involves wrapping the arm from below the elbow to the tip of the residual limb using 4 to 6 layers of flexible and rigid plaster rolls. Each layer is dipped in room-temperature water, wrung out, and evenly applied to create a strong and well-formed mold. While setting, the cast is carefully shaped for optimal prosthetic alignment. Once the lower cast is set, a separate cast for the upper limb is created, and marked for final adjustments.

A Life-Changing Prosthetic for Everyday Use

Chris’ new arm is more than just a prosthetic—it’s a gateway to greater mobility and independence. He primarily uses it for recreational activities with his family and continues to challenge himself through dedicated physical therapy. At our Silver Spring office, Chris has been tackling new adaptive challenges, proving that his prosthetic arm is not just functional but also empowering.

We are proud to support veterans like Chris in regaining confidence and mobility with cutting-edge prosthetic solutions. If you or a loved one are seeking expert prosthetic care, contact our specialists today to learn more about our personalized solutions.