This includes taking frequent breaks from repetitive activities, and stretching before and after activities. A therapist may be helpful in reviewing ergonometric tips or performing a work place evaluation. A corticosteroid injection of the carpal canal often provides temporary relief. Approximately 25% of patient treated with an injection will have long-term relief of their symptoms. Non-operative treatment modalities are tried for months and if the symptoms persist or progress surgical treatment is considered. Those patients with a severe carpal tunnel syndrome are considered for surgery more promptly since the non-operative modalities typically are not helpful at this stage. Carpal tunnel release is the most common procedure performed in the upper extremity. In general surgical procedures for carpal tunnel syndrome cut the ligament over the canal to take the pressure off of the median nerve. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and often in conjunction with intravenous sedation. The majority of patients undergoing carpal tunnel release note an improvement in their symptoms. Some patients may notice persistent numbness and tingling. This will occur particularly in patients that have a more severe carpal tunnel syndrome. At this stage more permanent changes may have occurred within the nerve due to longstanding compression. Other patients may notice persistent or recurrent symptoms due to other factors for example nerve compression in the neck (cervical radiculopathy), or a polyneuropathy due to diabetes. Most patients are capable of performing their activities of daily living soon after the procedure. Pain about the about the palm is often noted initially that is treated with scar massage. This scar pain is one reason full grip strength does not often return until three months after the procedure.