Washing your hair with one arm may feel impossible the first time you try it.
The good news is that most people find a routine that works after a little practice. You may need to move a little slower or ask for help at first, but with a few simple adjustments, washing your hair usually becomes much easier.
Start by Protecting Your Cast, Brace, or Sling
If you're wearing a cast or brace that isn't waterproof, make sure it's protected before you turn on the water. Even a small amount of moisture can damage many casts and cause skin irritation.
If you're wearing a sling, your healthcare provider will let you know when it's safe to remove it for showering.
Let Gravity Help
Instead of trying to wash your hair while standing upright, many people find it easier to lean forward over the sink or tilt their head back in the shower.
This allows your free hand to do most of the work without putting unnecessary strain on your injured arm.
Take your time. There's no need to rush.
Use Products That Are Easy to Handle
Pump bottles are usually much easier to use than bottles with flip caps or screw tops.
If possible, place your shampoo and conditioner somewhere within easy reach before you begin.
You may also find it helpful to use a wide-tooth comb while your conditioner is in your hair to gently work out tangles with one hand.
Consider Sitting Down
If you're feeling tired, dizzy, or unsteady, a shower chair or bath bench can make showering much safer and more comfortable.
Many patients feel more relaxed when they don't have to worry about balancing while trying to wash their hair with one hand.
Ask for Help When You Need It
For some injuries, especially shoulder surgery or when both movement and strength are limited, washing your hair may simply be too difficult at first.
That's okay.
Accepting help from a family member or friend for a short time doesn't mean you're losing your independence. It simply gives your body the chance to heal.
It Gets Easier
One of the things we've learned after helping thousands of orthopedic patients is that the hardest part is usually the first few tries.
Before long, you'll develop your own routine.
You'll discover what works best for you, and something that once felt frustrating will become just another part of your day.
Be patient with yourself.
Recovery is full of little adjustments, and each one brings you a little closer to getting back to normal.
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