Ganglion Cyst Symptoms & Treatments

Ganglion cysts of the wrist and hand are among the most common benign soft-tissue masses diagnosed. However, they can appear in other areas of the body, including the feet and fingers. They are fluid-filled cysts that typically appear near joints or tendon sheaths. 

Depending on the severity of the cyst, it could result in discomfort, restricted joint mobility, muscle weakness and a significant impact on day-to-day activities. Like mucous cysts, they are benign (non-cancerous), but the discomfort and mobility restrictions often prompt patients to seek effective treatment to regain function and alleviate pain. 

You don’t have to live with an uncomfortable and painful ganglion cyst forever. The orthopedic specialists at Houston Methodist are here to help diagnose and treat your condition so you can get back to living your life to the fullest. 

Understanding Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts, also known as bible cysts, are non-cancerous lumps that commonly develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists, hands or feet. The exact causes of ganglion cysts are still unknown. However, they may arise from flawed joint capsules or tendon sheaths that allow the joint tissue to bulge out.

Common Locations of Ganglion Cysts

• Finger joints: Typically located around the finger joints, particularly near the end joint that’s closest to the fingernail.
• Foot and ankle: Usually found on top of the foot or near the ankle joint.
• Wrist: Mainly on the back of the wrist. However, they can also appear on the palm side of the wrist.

Characteristics of Ganglion Cysts

• Appearance and texture: Ganglion cysts are round, smooth and filled with a jelly-like fluid. They can present as soft or rather firm.
• Impact on nerve function: When cysts form in areas near nerves, they may cause muscle weakness or numbing/tingling sensations due to pressure on the nerve.
• Variability in size and pain: Ganglia can change size depending on your activity levels. Further, this type of cyst could cause pain if it presses against a nerve.

Our Treatment Options for Ganglion Cysts

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our team of fellowship-trained physicians and orthopedic surgeons offer a variety of treatment options — each tailored to meet your individual needs:

• Observation and natural resolution: In many cases, these cysts resolve on their own, so waiting and watching is often recommended.
• Anti-inflammatory medication: Can help reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
• Use of splints or braces: Can be used to immobilize the affected area and reduce discomfort.
• Needle aspiration: Using a needle to drain the cyst
• Surgical treatment: A complete excision of the cyst may be necessary in cases where they appear frequently, cause significant pain or severely restrict your range of motion.
• Alternative therapies: Sometimes, treatments like acupuncture may offer relief for patients. However, evidence of its effectiveness varies. 

Signs and Symptoms of Ganglion Cysts

The earlier ganglion cysts are identified, the more effectively you can manage the symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Limitation in joint movement: May cause stiffness or limit the range of motion, particularly in the wrists or fingers.
• Localized swelling: Visible lumps that may be more prominent when the joint is in use.
• Muscle weakness: The cyst may put pressure on a nerve that can cause muscle weakness.
• Pain: Can range from mild to severe, particularly if the cyst is pressing against a nerve.

Additionally, risk factors for the development of ganglia can include age (15-40 years), gender (women are more likely to develop ganglia), injuries to extremities, repetitive work that stresses the wrist or hands, arthritis   and other connective tissue diseases that cause inflammation in the tendons or joints. 

How We Diagnose Your Ganglion Cyst

Whether you’re concerned about an oral cyst, ovarian cyst or ganglion cyst, the board-certified orthopedic physicians at Houston Methodist treat every case individually and comprehensively. This means that we have the expertise, experience and cutting-edge diagnostic approaches to ensure you’re accurately diagnosed and treated for your condition. 

Generally, the diagnostic process includes:

• Imaging tests, which may include x-rays, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential issues, such as tumors or deeper infections.
• Physical exam, where your health care provider will assess the size, location and consistency of the cyst. 

Managing Ganglion Cysts Effectively

In many cases, ganglion cysts go away on their own. If they do not resolve on their own there are some effective strategies for managing these cysts before seeking surgery. This can include wearing a splint, limiting certain activities, taking anti-inflammatory medication and using a wrist band. Whether you should stick with more conservative treatments or consider surgical outpatient procedures depends on your medical history and personal preferences. 

If your cyst causes unbearable pain or discomfort, you should seek medical advice for expert diagnoses and treatment options tailored to your specific needs. 

Find Comfort After a Ganglion Cyst

The expert orthopedic team at Houston Methodist offers cutting-edge, customized and comprehensive treatment options. We’re not just here to treat the ganglion cyst – Our physicians are also focused on improving your overall hand and joint health, enhancing your quality of life and helping you get back to the activities you enjoy. 

Contact us to schedule your consultation with an orthopedic physician today.