Ganglion Cyst

What Is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a soft, fluid-filled lump that develops near joints or tendons. These cysts most often appear on the back of the wrist, but they may also form on the palm side of the wrist, fingers, ankles or feet. While they can look concerning, ganglion cysts are noncancerous and usually harmless.

Although some people experience no discomfort, others may notice pain, stiffness or weakness if the cyst presses on nearby nerves. Ganglion cysts can change in size and often grow larger with increased joint activity.

What Causes a Ganglion Cyst?
The exact cause of ganglion cysts is still unclear, but they often appear after repeated stress on a joint or tendon. They are filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid similar to the fluid that lubricates joints.

You may be more likely to develop a ganglion cyst if:

• You are between the ages of 15 and 40
• You are female
• You do repetitive joint movements (like typing or sports)
• You have arthritis, especially in the finger joints

Ganglion cysts can be round or oval, ranging in size from pea-sized to larger than a quarter.

They may:

• Be painless or cause aching, tingling or weakness
• Change in size with activity
• Appear on the wrist, hand, fingers, ankle or foot

Some cysts don’t cause any pain, while others can press on nearby nerves and cause discomfort, tingling or muscle weakness.

If the cyst is large or painful, your health care provider might suggest imaging tests such as:

• Ultrasound
• MRI
• X-ray (to rule out other issues)
  
  

Your provider may also shine a light through the lump (transillumination) to see if it is filled with fluid.

Non-Surgical Care
Most ganglion cysts do not require treatment and may resolve on their own. If the cyst is not painful and does not limit movement, observation is often recommended.

Other non-surgical treatments include:

• Immobilization: Wearing a brace or splint can limit joint movement, sometimes reducing the cyst’s size.
• Aspiration: A needle is used to drain the fluid. This can relieve pressure and discomfort, though cysts may return over time.
• Activity Modification: Reducing repetitive stress on the affected joint may lessen symptoms.
  
  

Surgical Care

Surgery may be considered if:

• The cyst causes significant pain or weakness
• It interferes with daily activities
• It returns after aspiration or non-surgical care
  
  

Surgical excision involves removing both the cyst and its connection to the joint or tendon sheath. This is typically done as an outpatient procedure. Recovery can take 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the location and activity level. Physical therapy may be recommended afterward to restore motion and strength.

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If you're experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about your treatment options, don’t wait to get treatment.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Orthopedic Specialists - Schedule through MyChart or call 757-534-9988.
(804-693-0529 for Gloucester, 757-302-2700 for the Eastern Shore)

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.
If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368