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Ganglion Cyst Treatment
At Integrity Foot and Ankle, we provide expert care for ganglion cysts—a common soft tissue condition that can develop near joints or tendons, particularly around the ankles and feet. These fluid-filled lumps are typically benign but may cause pain, discomfort, or restricted movement depending on their size and location. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or are simply concerned about a visible lump, our team is here to assess your condition and offer personalized treatment options.
Ganglion cysts often form due to joint or tendon irritation, though the exact cause is not always clear. They may increase in size with physical activity or pressure, and while some resolve on their own, others persist or recur. Our goal is to identify the best course of action to relieve your symptoms, restore function, and prevent further issues.
Benefits of Ganglion Cyst Treatment
- Reduces pain caused by nerve compression or pressure
- Improves mobility and comfort when walking or wearing shoes
- Removes or reduces visible swelling or cosmetic concerns
- Prevents cyst enlargement or recurrence with appropriate care
- Minimizes the risk of inflammation or joint stiffness
- Offers non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to your needs
- Enhances long-term foot function and joint stability
- Personalized evaluation and diagnostic imaging to ensure accuracy
- Promotes faster healing and long-lasting symptom relief
- Comprehensive follow-up to monitor your recovery
Treatment Options for Ganglion Cysts
Non-Surgical Options
Observation and Monitoring
If the ganglion cyst is painless and not interfering with movement, monitoring it over time may be the best option. We’ll track any changes in size or symptoms and only intervene if necessary.
Footwear Adjustments and Padding
Properly fitting shoes and cushioned pads can help relieve pressure on the cyst, especially if it’s located in a weight-bearing area. These adjustments can significantly reduce irritation and discomfort during daily activities.
Aspiration (Fluid Drainage)
Aspiration involves withdrawing the fluid inside the cyst using a sterile needle. This provides temporary relief, especially for pain or pressure, but the cyst may refill over time.
Surgical Options
Ganglion Cyst Excision
Surgical removal is considered when the cyst is painful, persistent, or limits joint motion. The procedure involves removing the cyst along with the portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath it is attached to, reducing the chance of recurrence.
Post-Surgical Support and Recovery
Following surgery, we provide comprehensive instructions for wound care, temporary activity modification, and follow-up visits. Recovery time varies depending on the cyst’s location and the extent of the procedure.
What to Expect Before and After Treatment
Before Treatment
- Physical examination and review of symptoms
- Diagnostic imaging (ultrasound or MRI if needed)
- Discussion of treatment options and what to expect from each
- Pre-surgical lab testing and instructions (if surgery is planned)
After Treatment
- If aspiration was done: mild soreness may occur, and a compression bandage may be used
- If surgery was performed: limited activity, wound care, and possibly a short course of physical therapy
- Regular follow-ups to check healing progress and monitor for recurrence
- Guidance on shoe selection and long-term foot care
FAQ
Ganglion cysts may develop from repeated stress or irritation to a joint or tendon sheath, though the exact cause is often unknown. They commonly form in response to joint fluid leaking into surrounding tissue.
If the cyst is painful, interfering with movement, or continues to grow, it’s a good idea to get it evaluated. At Integrity Foot and Ankle, we’ll help determine the best course of treatment based on your symptoms.
Ganglion cysts are benign and not cancerous. However, they can cause discomfort or complications if they compress nearby nerves or structures.
Some ganglion cysts shrink or disappear over time, especially if they are not causing symptoms. If it persists or causes pain, treatment may be recommended.
Most patients recover within a few weeks, though full activity may be limited temporarily. We’ll guide you through each step of post-surgical care to ensure proper healing.
