Ganglion cyst
Ganglion cyst
This information may help if you have been diagnosed with a ganglion cyst. If you have new or ongoing symptoms, please visit your healthcare professional for advice.
Ganglion cysts are fluid filled lumps that can change in size. The most common type of swelling appears in the hand, wrist or foot.
They tend to be smooth and round. They are usually harmless and can safely be left alone.
Concerns about lumps or swellings
If you still have concerns about any lump or swelling, please contact your GP practice.
Common Symptoms
Symptom information is not available for this condition yet.
⚠️ This symptom list is for educational purposes. Having these symptoms does not mean you have this condition. See a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Medicines Commonly Used
⚠️ These medicines are commonly used for confirmed diagnoses of this condition. This is NOT a recommendation or prescription. Treatment must be determined by your doctor.
No medicines have been linked to this condition yet.
Causes
Causes of ganglion cysts
A ganglion cyst starts when the fluid from a joint or tendon collects and forms a jelly-filled sac beneath the skin.
It’s not known why this happens but they can be common.
Types of ganglion cysts
Ganglion cysts can form:
- at the back of the wrist – these often disappear without treatment
- at the front of the wrist
- at the base of the finger – these tend to be firmer, and pea-like in shape
- at the top of the foot
Diagnosis
Ganglion cysts usually look distinctive enough to recognise on sight. They are generally harmless and often need no treatment at all.
See your GP if the ganglion:
- keeps growing in size
- restricts movement
- becomes hard
- becomes irregular in shape
- becomes painful
Diagnosis is usually straightforward. Scans are rarely needed, but they can help if there is any doubt.
Treatment
Most ganglion cysts go away on their own without any treatment. In the early stages, it is best to simply wait and watch to see if this happens.
Any pain you feel may be linked to pressure from the ganglion. Try adjusting how you position your hand during daily activities to see if that eases things. It is important to keep using your hand or foot as normally as possible, so the area does not become stiff or weak.
Aspiration
Your healthcare professional may consider aspiration of the ganglion cyst if it seems appropriate. This is a simple procedure where fluid is drawn out of the ganglion using a needle and syringe.
Surgery
If the ganglion is causing significant pain or affecting how you use your hand or foot, you may be referred for surgery. This can be done under local or general anaesthetic, depending on your situation. As with any surgery, there are risks involved, and your healthcare professional will talk you through these beforehand. It is worth knowing that even after treatment, there is a chance the ganglion could come back.
Work
Dealing with a ganglion cyst may mean taking some time off work while you recover. How long you need will depend on your condition and the nature of your job. You do not have to wait until you are completely symptom free before returning to work. In fact, going back to work as soon as you reasonably can, or continuing to work through it, often helps recovery. Easing back into your normal daily activities gradually can help rebuild your strength and stamina.
Help and support
If you follow this advice, you should notice gradual improvement over time. Speak to a healthcare professional if your symptoms have not improved within 6 weeks of following this advice, or if they get worse. You can also find out about MSK, meaning musculoskeletal, services available in your area.
While managing any health condition, remember to look after your mental wellbeing too, since it can affect how well and how quickly you recover. When sharing details with anyone, avoid including personal information such as your name, location, or details of other health conditions.