Ganglion Cysts

What are Ganglion Cysts?

A Ganglion cyst typically occurs near the joints or tendons of your hands or wrist. They are noncancerous lumps ranging in size from dime size to an inch in diameter. These types of cysts are also filled with a jelly-like fluid and round in size. 

Normally these cysts don't cause pain. However, when the lump adds pressure to a nearby nerve it may become pinched and cause pain. At times the location of this small jelly-like lump may interfere with joint movement and cause joint pain. 

Ganglion Cysts are usually ok left untreated. Although, If the lump becomes painful due to a nearby nerve or interferes with your joint movement, it is a good idea to look into draining the cyst. Another option is to move the cyst altogether. But in many cases, the cyst will go away on its own.

Ganglion Cyst Symptoms

When a cyst appears on your wrist, it is characterized by the shape, location, and pain, such as:

• Shape and size. Ganglion cysts are round or oval and usually measure less than an inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter. Some are so small that they can't be felt. The size of a cyst can fluctuate, often getting larger when you use that joint for repetitive motions.
• Location. The cysts most commonly develop near the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. The next most common locations are the ankles and feet. These cysts can occur near other joints as well.
• Pain. Ganglion cysts usually are painless. However, if a cyst presses on a nerve — even if the cyst is too small to form a noticeable lump — it can cause hand pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness.

Ganglion Cyst Causes

At this time, we don't know why a ganglion cyst develops. We do know though that it grows out of the lining of a tendon or a joint. It appears like a tiny water balloon or stalks surrounding the joint or tendon that bulges out of place. Inside of the cyst is a thick fluid, such as fluid found in joints or around tendons. 

Although we do not know the cause, there are certain factors that increase your risk, such as: 

Osteoarthritis: If you have osteoarthritis the risk of developing a cyst increases. This is due to the wear-and-tear in the finger joints and often occur near these joints. 

Age & Sex: Although these cysts can occur in anyone, they are most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40. 

Previous Tendon or Joint Injury: If you've had a joint or tendon injury in the past, you are more likely to develop a ganglion cyst.