Fact Checked
Ganglion cysts are tiny, round sacs or lumps that are filled with a viscous synovial fluid. The lumps might be the size of a pea to almost an inch in size. They generally develop over a joint or tendons in the wrists, fingers and ankles or even the soles of the feet. Some cysts can be seen under the skin, but others are so small that cannot be seen by the naked eye. Some ganglion cysts can become big or smaller over time.
Symptoms of ganglion cyst
- Severe pain and discomfort
- A visible lump can be seen
- Difficulty in walking and wearing shoes if the lump develops on the foot or ankle
- Loss of mobility
Accumulation of fluids in a joint or around the tendons in the hands, ankle, wrist and foot. - Numbness and tingling sensations
Causes
- Accumulation of fluids in a joint or around the tendons in the hands, ankle, wrist and foot
- Injury, trauma or overuse of the area
- Repeated stressing the wrist such as gymnasts
Treatment
- Apply warm compress on the area to increase flow of blood in the area, promote drainage of fluid and lessen the swelling and the pain. Soak a clean wash cloth in warm water, wring out excess water. Place the warm cloth directly on the area for at least 5-10 minutes for 3-4 times every day until the cyst totally disappears.
- Apply black tea bags to the affected area to prevent making the condition worse. It has anti-inflammatory properties that lessen the swelling and the pain. Soak a black tea bag in warm water for at least 5 minutes. Remove and wring out excess water and then apply the warm tea bag over the area for at least 10 minutes every day for several days.
- Avoid performing repetitive movements of hand and wrist.
- Wear a wrist brace to prevent unnecessary movements and for fast healing of the condition.
- If a cyst is on the foot or ankle, avoid wearing shoes that touches the affected area.
Tips
- Avoid hitting the cyst with a heavy object, to prevent damage on the skin.
- Do not puncture or pop the cyst using a needle to prevent development of infections.
- Avoid removing the cyst using a scalpel or scissors.
FACT CHECK
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ganglion-cyst
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ganglion-cyst/symptoms-causes/syc-20351156
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/ganglion-cyst-of-the-wrist-and-hand/