Ganglion Cyst Specialist

What is a Ganglion Cyst?

Ganglion cysts are round or oval non-cancerous lumps filled with a jellylike fluid that most commonly develop along a tendon near a joint in your ankle or foot.  Ganglion cysts can range in size from the diameter of a pea to a large-sized grape.  

What are the Symptoms of a Ganglion Cyst?

They can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness if they interfere with joint movement or press against a nearby nerve.

What Causes a Ganglion Cyst?

A ganglion cyst forms within the lining of a tendon-like a balloon full of thick lubricating fluid (similar to the fluid found in joints), to protect the tendon from irritation as it passes over a joint.    

What are the Risk Factors of a Ganglion Cyst? 

• Age and sex. Ganglion cysts most commonly occur in women between the ages of 20 and 40.
• Osteoarthritis. People who suffer from osteoarthritis in the foot and ankle are at higher risk of developing ganglion cysts near those joints.
• Tendon injury. People who have previously injured their tendons are more likely to develop ganglion cysts.

What is the Treatment for Ganglion Cysts?

In many cases, ganglion cysts will diminish in size and resolve on their own.  If you have no symptoms, no treatment is necessary.  However, if your ganglion cyst is causing you trouble, our Doctors at Gotham Footcare, may suggest trying to drain the cyst with a needle and then administer a cortisone injection to decrease the inflammation surrounding the affected area.  In some cases, surgically removing the cyst may be necessary with simple excision of the cyst.  This procedure can be done outpatient with minimal to no downtime.