Washing Hair
There are different methods for getting the shampoo from the bottle.
- Shampoo/conditioner/shower gel dispensers are easy to use with one hand. These can be mounted to the wall using silicone adhesive.
- If you can’t supinate your hand (turn palm up), use a thick shampoo and put it on the back of your hand, then scoop it off with your unaffected hand and put on your hair
- A pump bottle may be helpful
Distributing shampoo and washing/rinsing hair on affected side of head
- A shower chair may help so she doesn’t have to worry about balance
- For younger children, reminders to wash both sides may help – front, top, back, left side, right side
- Try placing a plastic mirror with suction cups on the shower wall so he can see if he’s got shampoo on all parts of his head
- A hand held shower head may be helpful for rinsing
- How to Shampoo with One Hand
Use plenty of conditioner and detangling sprays. Use picks to comb the hair since they are easier to handle with one hand and have wider, stronger teeth.
Pony Tails and Buns
Girls with Hemiplegia and learn to put hair into pony tails and buns. There are a variety of ways to achieve putting up a pony tail with one hand or limited use of one hand, so keep practicing until you find the way that works for you. Below you’ll find the description of how one teen puts up her hair. The video shows a different method.
First of all, hair needs to be long enough to pull into a pony tail. Place the pony tail holder around your affected wrist. Use your affected forearm to help gather your hair in the back and let it rest there. Pull the pony tail holder off the wrist and around your hair for the first wrap. Use your pointer finger to help tighten it and hold it secure while your non-affected hand continues to make the final wraps. You may need to adjust how high or low you want it by using your affected forearm again in the back to hold it in place.
Ponytail
Blow Drying Hair
Stands that hold a hairdryer while in use, freeing up one hand, are available.
