I'm amazed that no one has mentioned massage therapy. Even if what you have is carpal tunnel syndrome, proper massage by some one who knows what they're doing can frequently heal it completely-- and you will usually know in one session if it is going to help, though it may take several sessions.

Advantages: Much cheaper (cost depends on the therapist, but $50 an hour is average in my area. And if a doctor writes you a prescription insurance will cover it)

NO DOWN TIME to speak of. The therapist may want you to rest it, but you won't have nearly the recovery time.

Also: what looks/feels like carpal tunnel can originate with spasms or chronic tension constricting nerves in the upper arm and torso. It's worth checking out other possibilities.