Frogga - its Alison here,

I am so sorry about your arms/shoulders. I know how frustrating it is when you have to depend on someone to do things for you.
You will probably be aware that my Physiotherapist tried to splint my arm, but the spasms were really strong so my arm stayed in a fist, and when my physiotherapist took the splint of she could not get it back on!

How to retain skin integrity, also known as Xerosis

In general, there is a twofold approach to the treatment of xerosis: (1) minimizing irritation and (2) moisturization.2 Patients should be instructed to limit bathing, especially in soapy baths that strip oil from skin and leave it chapped.2 While some experts recommend bathing once daily in warm water and mild soap, others suggest bathing only every other day and supplementing with sponge baths of the axillae and anogenital areas, since these areas are rarely affected by xerosis.1,2 Patting the skin dry instead of rubbing can also help. Detergents, rubbing alcohol, and skin care products that contain alcohol and other drying agents should be avoided if possible. Irritating materials (e.g., wool) should not be placed next to the skin.1

In general, moisturization through frequent and liberal application of emollients is recommended, especially after bathing when water can be trapped in the skin with an occlusive agent.2 Moisturizers have water-retaining and lubricating properties and exhibit weak antipruritic, anti-inflammatory, antimitotic, and vaso* constrictive effects, which make them suitable treatments for mildly eczematized xerotic skin.2 The generous and frequent application of moisturizers that contain lanolin or white petrolatum effectively traps and retains water in the skin.4 Scented emollients are not recommended, to avoid skin irritation and contact sensitization.1 Emollients have few side effects, usually confined to contact dermatitis, folliculitis, and miliaria (cutaneous changes associated with retention and discharge of sweat).2

Seniors should be informed that while over-the-counter emollients vary greatly in quality and cost, there is no strict relationship between the two.1 Checking labels for ingredients known to be useful in the treatment of xerosis (table 3) should be encouraged to avoid confusion from misleading claims and advertisements. Some additives in expensive moisturizers, such as collagen and elastin, are used for marketing, not
medical purposes, while other additives, such as vitamin E and fragrances, may provoke an allergic dermatitis.2 An elegant, aesthetically acceptable topical preparation may be advantageous for some patients who may otherwise not adhere to a regimen that requires a thick, greasy ointment (e.g., petrolatum) to be applied under their garments.

Hope this helps you
PAIN FREE HUGS
Alison