I had bilateral carpal tunnel and had the surgery on both hands 6 weeks apart in 1993. I then took 3 months of intensive physical therapy to get back the use of my hands becuase I did stenography and speed typist. My typing speed was over 100 wpm when I developed the carpal tunnel and my shorthand speed was way up there also. I did not work for well over a year while recuperating. I would recommend the surgery to everyone becuase my pain went away permanently, and I was able to return to sewing, quilting and all the activities I loved. I no longer experience any pain, however, I will say that when the weather does get really cold I might have some pain then, but it is always very short lived. the surgery was a life saver for me. i couldn't have injections becuase it is a cortisone injection and I am allergic to anyting considered steroid or cortisone.