What is a Ganglion Cyst on Foot and Ankle?

Aug 06, 2023

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Originally Posted On : https://ankleandfootcenters.com/ganglion-cyst-foot/

What is a Ganglion Cyst on Foot and Ankle?

A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous lump or bump that usually develops along the tendons or joints of wrists, hands, or feet but can also appear on ankles, knees, or shoulders. Ganglion cysts on feet are soft tissue masses filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid and can range in size from small pea-sized bumps to larger, golf-ball-sized lumps.

The exact cause of ganglion cysts is not always clear, but they are believed to form due to injury or stress to a joint or tendon. Women have a higher likelihood of developing ganglion cysts than men. Plus, they seem to be more common in young people between 20 and 40 years old.

Most ganglion foot cysts are not harmful and do not require treatment. However, suppose the cyst is causing pain, limits movement, or is aesthetically bothersome. In that case, it can be treated with various options, including aspiration (draining the fluid with a needle), surgery, or watchful waiting. It’s essential to consult a foot doctor to determine the best course of action for each case.

What Causes Ganglion Cysts?

The exact causes of ganglion cysts are not always clear, but they are believed to form due to injury or stress to a joint or tendon. Some possible causes include the following:

Repetitive stress: Overuse or repetitive stress on a joint or tendon can cause a ganglion cyst to develop. Usually, this will be near the connective tissue.
Joint or tendon injury: A previous joint or tendon injury, such as a sprain or strain, can make a person more susceptible to developing a ganglion cyst.
Genetic predisposition: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing ganglion cysts.
Mechanical changes in joints: Changes in joint mechanics, such as arthritis or degeneration, can also contribute to the development of a ganglion cyst.
Unknown causes: In some cases, ganglion cysts may develop for no apparent reason. They appear as a noticeable lump that develops over time.

It’s important to note that ganglion cysts are usually benign and rarely pose a serious health threat. Anybody concerned about a lump or bump on the body, should consult a podiatrist near you for a thorough diagnosis and following treatment.

Common Ganglion Cyst Symptoms

Ganglion cysts can vary in size and location, and some may not cause any symptoms at all. However, if a ganglion cyst is causing symptoms, it may present with the following:

A visible lump: A ganglion cyst is typically a lump or bump on the skin’s surface. It may be round or oval-shaped and may vary in size.
Pain or discomfort: The cyst may cause pain or discomfort, mainly if it is located near a joint or tendon. Usually, this is discomfort in the form of a tingling or burning sensation.
Stiffness: The cyst may cause stiffness in the affected joint or make it difficult to move.
Numbness or tingling: A ganglion cyst may sometimes compress a nerve, leading to numbness or tingling in the affected area. So, if it is on the ankle at an angle, wearing shoes can become painful.
Weakness: If the cyst is located near a muscle, it may cause weakness or muscle fatigue.

Changes in appearance: In some cases, a ganglion cyst may change in size or appearance over time. It’s worth noting these symptoms may be associated with other similar conditions. That’s why it’s best to see a doctor, and ideally one with experience dealing with ganglion cysts.

How To Diagnose Ganglion Cyst?

The first thing is to visit a doctor if you suspect it is a ganglion cyst or anything similar. The doctor will start by examining the lump. They will also want to know more about your medical history and ask how long you have had the ganglion cyst on top of foot or wrist. In addition, doctors will also want to know about your symptoms.

Depending on whom you visit and what they suspect, the doctor may order imaging tests like an ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI. This is especially if they are unable to see the lump.

One process is called Transillumination, which is mainly shining a light through the body to examine abnormalities. This helps doctors differentiate between a solid tumor or something filled with a liquid, like a ganglion cyst.

The doctor may also ask that a fluid sample be provided for testing. Usually, this is extracted with a needle.

Is It Possible To Prevent Ganglion Cysts?

Currently, there is no way for you to prevent an instance of a ganglion cyst from forming on the body. If you are naturally prone to such cysts, then even treatment can’t save you from not having to deal with it at some point again. They can form at the tendon sheath or any other part of the body.

Sometimes the ganglion cyst returns to the foot or ankle, becoming bothersome. If that happens, then you should speak to a doctor to figure out the next steps needed to deal with the problem or remove it.

Ganglion Cyst Removal May Not Be Needed

Statically speaking, between 30 and 50 percent may disappear all by themselves and not even require medical treatment. Yes, ganglion cysts disappear! That said, when it comes to any physical problem, even if it is a painless ganglion cyst, it is worth consulting a doctor to ensure that the lump isn’t symptomatic of perhaps another disease. If the cyst is painful, or if it makes it hard for you to move or has maybe become the cause of pain or numbness, then a doctor is the best person to help you deal with ganglion cyst removal.

Mobility After Ganglion Cyst Removal

Whether the ganglion cyst is surgically removed from your ankle or knee, you will also be fitted with what’s called a splint for up to a week, if not more. The same goes if the cyst was aspirated. Depending on the cyst’s location, fully recovering from the ganglion cyst surgery can take up to eight weeks.

Doctors will often provide advice on how best to move and what to eat, in addition to prescribing pain medication if needed. Most doctors offer advice to help you get the joint moving again; suffice to say, the sooner this happens, the better. Also, keep in mind that using splints for longer than what is needed can hamper joint movement. Plus, perform the exercises your doctor prescribes during and after recovery.

Ganglion Cyst Treatments

The treatment of a ganglion cyst depends on its size, location, and symptoms. In some cases, a ganglion cyst may not require treatment, but if it is causing pain or discomfort, the following treatments may be recommended:

Observation and monitoring: In some cases, a ganglion cyst may not require treatment and may go away on its own. Your doctor may recommend monitoring the cyst to see if it changes in size or causes any new symptoms.
Aspiration: Aspiration involves using a needle to drain the fluid from the cyst. This procedure is usually done in the doctor’s office and can temporarily relieve symptoms. A steroid medication may usually be administered However, the cyst may refill with fluid, and the procedure may need to be repeated.
Immobilization: If the cyst is located on a joint or tendon, immobilization may be recommended to help reduce swelling and pressure on the cyst. This may involve wearing a splint or brace for a period of time.
Surgery: Surgical removal may be recommended if other treatments are unsuccessful or if the cyst is causing significant pain or interference with joint movement. Surgery involves removing the cyst and, in some cases, a portion of the affected joint or tendon.

It’s important to note that while these treatments can be effective, ganglion cysts can recur after treatment. A doctor can help you determine the best treatment plan based on your individual situation.

What Are Some Home Ganglion Cyst Foot Treatment Options?

While there are no guaranteed home remedies to cure a ganglion cyst, some strategies may help alleviate symptoms and reduce the size of the cyst. Here are some home ganglion cyst foot treatment strategies:

Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected area may help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with a ganglion cyst. It can also help improve joint mobility and reduce that tingling sensation.
Epsom salt soak: Soaking your foot in warm water with Epsom salt may help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with a ganglion cyst.
Massage: Gentle massage around the cyst may help improve circulation and reduce swelling.
Rest and elevation: Resting the affected foot and elevating it above heart level may help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with a ganglion cyst.
Turmeric: Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with a ganglion cyst. It can be taken as a supplement or added to food.

It’s important to note that these home remedies may not be effective for everyone, and it’s always best to consult with a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Additionally, if the ganglion cyst is causing significant pain, interfering with joint movement, or showing signs of infection, seeking medical attention is recommended.

What You Absolutely Shouldn’t Do

When speaking of home remedies, it is worth mentioning something that’s very common but shouldn’t be done as a way to cure Ganglion Cyst Foot and Ankle. One of the highly misguided home remedies involves knocking the cyst or affected area with a hammer or some other heavy object, like maybe a book. Not only is doing this highly ineffective, but you will damage surrounding tissue.

The other thing you should never attempt to do is drain the cyst at home. Attempting to do this can lead to further complications and even infections.

Important Things To Remember

Before we close, it is worth going over a few things you should remember about ganglion cysts, whether it is on your foot or ankle.

The cyst is a softball with some fluid, but it usually grows at the site of your joint or tendon.
What exactly causes the cyst is relatively known, but according to some doctors, it is caused by tearing of the tendon membrane or a joint capsule that may have ripped and resulted in the contents squeezing out.
The most affected areas are the back of the hands, wrists, ankle, knee, and foot.
Common treatment options include ganglion cyst surgery or a doctor draining the cyst using a large syringe.
There are instances where the ganglion cyst will heal without treatment.

When Is Ganglion Cyst Surgery Needed?

Usually, when all other treatment options have failed or aren’t appropriate, the cyst needs to be removed by a surgeon. Even though the odds of the cyst recurring is considerably lower compared to what we’ve seen with aspiration or what’s called injection therapy, there are instances when the cyst has returned.

Final Word

As you have probably already figured, ganglion cysts are rarely, if ever, severe beyond just an ugly lump on your foot, ankle, or knee. However, if the cyst is painful, you should see a doctor immediately. If the cyst is on your foot, you’d also want to switch to wear shoes that do not irritate the cyst.

Regardless of assuming that the cyst is dangerous, it is always best to see a doctor who will determine the best course of action based on their experience and assessment of the condition.