A ganglion cyst is a round or oval lump that typically forms along the joints or tendons in your hands or wrists. Their size can range anywhere from a pea to a quarter, and they’re usually filled with a thick, jelly-like fluid.In most cases, ganglion cysts are noncancerous and painless. Depending on their location, however, they can impair your joint movement and cause intense nerve pain.
Most cysts don’t require treatment and often go away on their own. If you have pain or mobility problems because of its location, your doctor at Arizona Center for Hand to Shoulder Surgery might recommend a variety of treatments to provide relief.
Your doctor accesses your ganglion cyst through a comprehensive physical examination that includes pressing the area for discomfort or tenderness. They also determine if the lump is solid or filled with fluid.
Based on your physical exam, your doctor might recommend digital imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds to rule out underlying conditions like tumors or arthritis. To confirm their diagnosis, your doctor might extract a small amount of fluid from your cyst to look for clear, translucent, or thick material.
There are four main approaches to treating ganglion cysts:
In addition to medical care, your doctor might suggest home therapies like over-the-counter pain relievers. It’s essential, however, that you don’t try to treat the cyst yourself or puncture it with a needle.
If you suffer from any of the symptoms of a ganglion cyst, contact Arizona Center for Hand to Shoulder Surgery for a consultation. Their caring staff will be honored to take care of you.
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