tips for washing thick hair

Even though my hair is short, it is thick and coarse and since I had it permed, curly. My problem is that when I go to wash it it is hard to get my fingers through it all to shampoo it thoroughly. I used to use a little plastic circular thing with teeth that you used while shampooing to help wash your hair, but I was wondering if anyone had any advice or tips. Should I brush my hair before I wash it to make it easier?Thanks for all your advice and helpSusannah