A carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the nerve located inside the carpal tunnel, an area in the wrist that supplies nerve function to the fingers. Surgery may be performed in the more tradition fashion, or endoscopically. In traditional surgical treatment, an incision is made in the palm of the hand to openly expose the underlying structures. In endoscopic surgery, a smaller incision is made in the palm or wrist into which endoscopic instruments are inserted. In both techniques, entry into the carpal tunnel is made and the tissue called the transverse carpal ligament is cut, which stops the compression on the median nerve from continuing. Exercises to both stretch and strengthen the hand, fingers, and wrist are imperative in order for the patient to completely recover.