Ganglion Cyst

What Is a ganglion cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac on your foot. The word ganglion means knot and describes the knotlike lump that forms below the surface of your skin when you have a cyst.

Ganglion cysts occur in people of all ages but are more common between ages 15 and 40. The cysts aren’t cancerous and won’t spread to other areas of your body. The cysts usually form in connection to a tendon or joint.

Ganglion cysts come in a variety of sizes. Your cyst might grow bigger or shrink; some ganglion cysts disappear entirely, only to return later.

What causes ganglion cysts?

The exact cause of ganglion cysts is unknown, although experts think they may arise from trauma. The trauma can be a single injury or repetitive microtrauma. Mechanical changes and irritations in a joint or tendon also may lead to the formation of a ganglion cyst.

What are the symptoms of a ganglion cyst?

You may notice one or more of the following symptoms with a ganglion cyst:

• A noticeable lump
• Tingling or burning (if the cyst is touching a nerve)
• Difficulty wearing shoes due to irritation between the lump and your shoe

The cysts may cause a dull pain or ache, a possible warning sign the cyst is pressing against a joint or tendon.

How do podiatrists diagnose ganglion cysts?

The Eastside Foot & Ankle team begins by performing a thorough exam of the area where the possible cyst is located. They may press the lump, which should move freely underneath your skin if it’s a ganglion cyst.

They sometimes shine a light through the cyst or remove a small fluid sample from the cyst for testing. In certain cases, the team recommends an X-ray or additional imaging studies.

Once they have finished a thorough evaluation, they diagnose your condition and discuss your treatment options.

What are the treatment options for ganglion cysts?

Eastside Foot & Ankle initially suggests a period of observation and may recommend wearing a brace or splint to relieve pain or other symptoms.

Other treatment options include aspiration, which involves numbing the area and puncturing the cyst with a needle. If the cyst returns after aspiration, the team may recommend surgical removal.

If a ganglion cyst is bothering you, get the treatment you need by calling Eastside Foot & Ankle today or booking a consultation online.