For the Upper Body

1 Self-care Using One HandFor the Upper BodyGeneral tips Find methods to save your energy: Sit to work, ifyou need to. Make a list of activities for the yourself enough time to complete each rest breaks. Use your body to keep objects stable. For example,place a jar between your legs. Use your good armto unscrew the lid. Place objects on a non-slip surface. For example, arubber mat keeps items from sliding on a counter. When you handle small objects, use all the fingersof your hand. For example, place your keys in thepalm of your hand. Use your thumb to separatethe keys. You may need special equipment to help youdo tasks with one hand.

2 Your OT (occupationaltherapist) can help with your specific for grooming and bathing Keep items within easy reach, both on the counterand in the shower. Use shelves and bath organizers. Use items that are easy to open: liquid soap, spraydeodorant, and toothpaste with a flip-top. Use an electric toothbrush or razor. Use a denture brush or nail brush with suctioncups. Try using a slip-on wash mitt. A long-handled bathsponge may help you reach all parts of your for dressing Pullover shirts are easier than shirts with buttons. Wear clothes that are easy to fasten or that fastenin front. Replace buttons and clasps with Velcro.

3 If you wear a bra, choose bras that pull over yourhead (sports bras) or fasten in front. If you usea bra that hooks in the back, your therapist canshow you how to put it on. Sit in a straight-backed chair. Place your clotheswithin reach, in the order you will put them on. If you had arm surgery, only move your arm asdirected by your informational purposes only. Not to replace the advice of your health care provider. Copyright 2008 Fairview Health Services. All rights reserved. Clinically reviewed by Kristen Prouty, MS, OTR/L .SMART works 521064 REV 12 1 of 2 Pullover the weak arm first.

4 Place the shirt face-downon your lap. The neck should open at your up the clothing to expose the the weak arm through the your good arm through the other putting the shirt over your head, make sureboth sleeves are pushed up over your the shirt from hemline to collar. Duckyour head and pull the shirt over your take off the shirt, undress your good arm shirts and the weak arm first. Open the shirt andplace it on your lap. The inside should face upwith the tag showing. The neck should open atyour your weak arm and place it into the the armhole well above your elbow. Pull theshirt onto the the rest of the shirt around your back:Throw it over the shoulder, or reach for it behindyour your good arm through the up the front edges of the shirt.

5 Startbuttoning from the bottom and work take off the shirt, undress your good arm on a PulloverStep 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Page 2 of 2