11 Tips to Make Grooming Easier with Multiple Sclerosis
Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS
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Alleviate your difficulties with grooming.Sometimes, trying to look good can be challenging when you have multiple sclerosis, especially when you are not feeling well. Multiple sclerosis issues like spasticity (involuntary muscle spasms or unusual tightness of muscles), loss of balance, and fatigue can make any task difficult to perform—especially intricate movements needed with daily grooming. Here are some tips to help you look and feel great.
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Polish those pearly whites.Brushing your teeth can be tricky if spasticity or lack of coordination of the hands is present. Gripping the toothbrush can become challenging. A bigger grip is easier to negotiate, so try wrapping a cylindrical piece of foam or tennis racquet grip tape around the handle. This will make the grip wider and a little easier to hold while brushing. Another option—use an electric toothbrush. Their grips have a tendency to be wider than a standard toothbrush and they can provide the recommended brushing motion.
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Hands-free hairdryers can help put an end to bad hair days.Trying to get a handle on that hair? Holding the brush and hairdryer while moving your wrist to style your hair can be a frustrating experience. There are some easier ways to get luscious locks. Consider purchasing a hands-free dryer or a hairdryer bonnet. If blow drying your hair is difficult, try using a dry shampoo some days—it eliminates the need for rinsing your hair that day. You can also buy a brush with a bigger grip for an easier hold when styling.
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Electric razors can help simplify shaving.Gentlemen, holding a razor blade and shaving can be frustrating—sometimes leaving you with nicks. If sporting a beard is not the look you are going for, try an electric razor for more ease with this task. They also eliminate the messy step of lathering with shaving cream. Ladies, electric razors are also an option for you. Consider using hair-removal creams or make a waxing appointment at a local salon. Both men and women can help battle balance and fatigue issues by sitting while shaving.
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Velcro! Your secret weapon.Buttons, zippers, and tight-fitting clothes can present a problem when dressing, but that doesn't mean you can't look fashionable. Ask your tailor to sew buttons on the outside of your shirts while placing Velcro on the inside lining to help you close them. Choosing looser-fitting clothes can make putting clothes on and taking them off easier. Be sure they are not too loose to avoid tripping over hems while walking. Men, consider adding clip-on or pre-knotted ties to your wardrobe.
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Put your best foot forward in shoes that address balance issues.Tripping over untied shoelaces presents a problem, especially if your balance is challenged to begin with. If lacing shoes is an issue for you, try footware that doesn't have laces, like slip-ons or clogs, or consider styles with Velcro straps. Also, putting grips on the bottoms of your shoes may help you avoid slips and falls. If your heels are too high and challenging your balance—consider a fashionable flat or talk to a shoe repair person about cutting down the heel height.
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Turn down the temperature in the shower.Before stepping into the shower – be sure the water temperature is good for your condition. Experts say a hot shower may temporarily worsen symptoms of MS. It's important not to let your body overheat and to avoid temperature extremes. Start with warm water and gradually increase coolness. A shower seat and mat may be a good idea to help you counter fatigue, balance issues, and avoid falls.
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Accessorize assistive devices to add spark to your look.If you require a cane or wheelchair, try accessorizing it. There are stylish canes these days. A wheelchair can also be wrapped with stickers or special fabrics to add some pizzazz. Be careful the fabric doesn't get in the way of the device's function or leave you at risk for tripping. Have your wheelchair checked for a proper fit to ensure your best posture. Sitting tall is a great way to look your best.
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It's OK to put your elbows on the table.Ignore that old etiquette rule! Placing elbows on the table supports your arms and helps give you some control over your hands during your meal. Consider using adaptive utensils that have bigger grips to help with eating. As for beverages, use a glass with larger handles or a wide glass to help avoid spills.
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Makeup made easier.Applying makeup requires good eye-hand coordination, which often suffers with multiple sclerosis. Use a magnifying mirror to help during your beauty regimen. Sitting while doing your makeup can help counter fatigue. Support your elbows while applying makeup to help give you more control over your hands. Look for easy-to-glide-on eye shadows and liners for less stressful makeup application.
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Prevent toileting troubles that may lead to UTI.Good hygiene is not only part of proper grooming but also one way to help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Studies show UTIs can trigger relapses in patients with multiple sclerosis. Tasks like wiping and getting up from the toilet can be made easier with adaptive devices designed for those specific purposes. Elevated toilet seats and a secure handrail can also help with sit-to-stand transfers.
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Breathe!Studies suggest stress often precipitates an MS relapse. It's important to try to keep stress at bay. Researchers say stress causes your sympathetic nervous system ("the fight-or-flight" system) to kick into high gear. Reports suggest that taking deep breaths and exhaling longer than inhaling stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system. This helps counter the sympathetic system and helps you calm down. Try this a few times a day: Breathe deeply into your belly for a count of 4. Then exhale for a count of 6. Repeat 5 times.
11 Tips to Make Grooming Easier with Multiple Sclerosis