Hi Ginger,
I would say what you do to your hair before surgery depends on what type of hair you have. I have long, fairly straight hair with highlights. I got my hair done right before surgery. I didn't need to go in for almost 2 months. My hair doesn't tangle very easy so I didn't bother to do a braid or ponytail. (I get headaches if they are in too long.) I though I would need a shampoo while in the hosp. so I bought a plastic head drape that Velcro's around your head like you would wear a headband and drains into the sink. You would sit normally, in a chair, with your back to the sink. The drape is long enough to reach in the sink. I never needed it though. I was allowed to shower the day after I got home, day 9. My hair wasn't itchy and not very dirty like it has been when I was sick (A fever is tough on your hair!) and didn't shower for a bit. I guess my system was in shock and shut down the oil glands. I only had steri-strips on, not a dressing. Showering was o.k. I was told as long as the stream of water wasn't directly on my back. I did take and use facial cleansing cloths to freshen up all over, they work great.
As for those of you wondering about reaching up to do your hair it absolutely depends on how high your fusion is. It seems around T4-5 area is where it gets tougher to lift arms. Not impossible just tiring like Susie*bee said. Chihuahua mama, you should be fine. I am T10 to L4 and had no problem.
I would say what you do to your hair before surgery depends on what type of hair you have. I have long, fairly straight hair with highlights. I got my hair done right before surgery. I didn't need to go in for almost 2 months. My hair doesn't tangle very easy so I didn't bother to do a braid or ponytail. (I get headaches if they are in too long.) I though I would need a shampoo while in the hosp. so I bought a plastic head drape that Velcro's around your head like you would wear a headband and drains into the sink. You would sit normally, in a chair, with your back to the sink. The drape is long enough to reach in the sink. I never needed it though. I was allowed to shower the day after I got home, day 9. My hair wasn't itchy and not very dirty like it has been when I was sick (A fever is tough on your hair!) and didn't shower for a bit. I guess my system was in shock and shut down the oil glands. I only had steri-strips on, not a dressing. Showering was o.k. I was told as long as the stream of water wasn't directly on my back. I did take and use facial cleansing cloths to freshen up all over, they work great.
As for those of you wondering about reaching up to do your hair it absolutely depends on how high your fusion is. It seems around T4-5 area is where it gets tougher to lift arms. Not impossible just tiring like Susie*bee said. Chihuahua mama, you should be fine. I am T10 to L4 and had no problem.
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