Shalhoub liked the idea, but required that they recruit an actual one-armed actor to play Dr. Sorenson. The Screen Actors Guild actually had several actors waiting to audition, and the part was given to Rick Curry.
Shalhoub liked the idea, but wanted to ensure that they cast an actual amputee to play Dr. Sorenson. Fortunately, the Screen Actors Guild had a number of talented actors waiting in the wings, and Rick Curry landed the role.