There is a limited evidence base from which to derive recommendations for safe and effective return to different types of occupation after carpal tunnel release surgery. The current practice of members of the British Society for Surgery of the Hand and the British Association of Hand Therapists was investigated with a questionnaire. In total, 173 surgeons and 137 therapists responded from an estimated sample of 1959. Median recommended return-to-work times were 7 days for desk-based duties, 15 days for repetitive light manual duties and 30 days for heavy manual duties. However, the responses were wide-ranging: 0–30 days for desk-based; 1–56 days for repetitive light manual; and 1–90 days for heavy manual. Variation in the recommended timescales for return to work and other functional activities after carpal tunnel release suggests that patients are receiving different and possibly even conflicting advice.