A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous fluid-filled mass. It tends to form near tendons or joints of the foot or ankle. They can also occur in the wrists or hands. They are typically round or oval in shape and are filled with a jelly-like fluid.
The size of a ganglion cyst can range from pea-sized to large golf ball-sized. They can be non-painful, but they can become painful if they press on a nearby nerve. Depending on the location of the cyst it can cause shoe gear irritation.
If you have a ganglion cyst and it is causing you pain or discomfort you should contact your foot and ankle specialist to have the cyst addressed. The doctor will do a clinical examination, make a diagnosis, and determine whether or what treatment is needed. They may offer certain treatments including draining the cyst with a needle or having the cyst surgically removed.
Risk factors
Factors that may increase your risk of ganglion cysts include:
- Your sex and age. Ganglion cysts can develop in anyone, but they most commonly occur in women between the ages of 20 and 40.
- Arthritis. People who have wear-and-tear arthritis in the joints are at higher risk of developing ganglion cysts near those joints.
- Joint or tendon injury. Joints or tendons that have been injured in the past are more likely to develop ganglion cysts.
Author
Han N. Nguyen, DPM
Dr. Han Nguyen specializes in both the surgical and conservative treatment of the foot and ankle. She graduated from Florida Southern College, Lakeland, Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. She then proceeded to obtain her doctorate degree from Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in North Chicago, Illinois. She was in the top 10 percent of her graduating class. Dr. Nguyen went on to complete a 3-year integrated Podiatric Medicine and Surgery residency with added credential in Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle surgery at White Memorial Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. During residency she rescued her beloved dog name, Meepo. They have been inseparable ever since. In her free time she enjoys cooking and baking for her friends and family. She loves outdoor recreational activities such as road biking, hiking, and running. She took part in the OC half marathon.
Han Nguyen DPM, AACFAS
Board Qualified Foot & Ankle Surgeon
Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates, Inc.
Phone (949) 364-2525