Hi adictpunkgrl and welcome.

I also have some carpal trouble in my left wrist - caused spending a summer in a chicken packing factory when I was a student. (Don't ask!! )

Untill recently I could only do road riding as the hand position on mtb put too much pressure on my wrist. When I'm on the road I try and move my hand position around as much as possible. Sometimes in the drops, on the hoods, sitting almost upright.

The balance of weight on a road bike should be about 60 - 40, with 40 % on your hands, so if you're just starting out you might want to look at how you spread your weight.

Top tip though has to be to keep you hands, arms, shoulders as relaxed as you can. Wiggle your fingers from time to time and shrug your shoulders.

Hope this is helpful.