Mario,
I had my bout with CTS as well, and I chose to battle it with cyropractic therepy instead of surgury. It took about a year and a half, but my insurance paid for it, it was painless, riskfree and it worked ! I have NO trace of the symptoms any more and it's been over 4 years since the treatment.

Regarding breaks - every job has it's own "pulse" and I am in control of that pulse. Sometimes I play extra long sets, and sometimes I take frequent breaks. There is no set rule for me .... just an attentive approach to time mangement. I aggree that playing your own music on breaks can help you control the mood while you're on break.

I'll be near Deal this weekend in Spring Lake. My sister has a home there and I'm taking a short holiday with a few of my girls from Friday to Sunday. Do you live close by? Donny is not far from there either - he's in Brick twp. Maybe we can grab a sandwich or a drink somewhere?
I'll be there all day Friday .... Saturday morning, and all day Sunday too.
My cell # 215-284-1328

If you're around - ring me up, and I'll call Donny !