i was hurt in an accident at work about 5 years ago and while i haven't had carpel tunnel surgery, i have had two different surgeries on neck for spinal fusions. i now have 4 cages and 16 bolts in neck. i had three surgeries to fix damage to my left arm, left hand and wrist and surgery on my right shoulder..the first couple i sat around and waited to FEEL better....that took awhile....all the others i made myself get up and made myself believe that i was better....made all the difference in the world....and as far as the meds,,,,,not me....very easy to get addicted to something that allows you to feel nothing, or less....after all i have been through, i take four ibuprofen with my cup of coffee and ride,,,sometime i pay for it when im done, but i always feel great when i ride, so its worth it
And i will agree....getting older does suck. have been finding myself needing naps in the middle of the day and going to bed when the sun goes down.
Hang in there and while you are recouping, go to your bike and talk to her, detail her and love her...great rehab and motivation.