I have carpal tunnel also, but I LOVE to hand quilt. I do most of my quilting on a floor frame, so I HAVE to change my position and move around to be able to get to where I want to stitch. I quilt for 6 hours twice a week with a break for lunch. I am left handed, and quilt in many directions. I use a rolling chair that I can adjust up or down.
Methinks that you have tried to overdo it and quilt for long periods too quickly. You need to work in to this like all exercise! Relax. Take a break. It is worth it! :lol:
BTW, my carpal tunnel only bothers when I HAVEN'T quilted for a while! :?