Question 1

what is a ganglion cyst?

Accepted Answer

Inflamed tendon: Tendons run in sheaths, similar to the cables on a bicycle. Sometimes a minor trauma can cause the sheath to become inflamed and a small cyst can pop up. This is called a ganglion cyst. They are usually painless and sometimes go away on their own. If it isn't bothering you then you likely don't need to do anything with it. If it is bothering you, see your doc about removing it.

Question 2

can ganglion cyst get bigger?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Ganglion cysts can get larger. Please see your doctor for evaluation and treatment options.

Question 3

what exactly is a ganglion cyst?

Accepted Answer

Synovial cyst: Rupture of the synovium which is the cushion between the small bones of the wrist. The fluid that leaks out is then contained by the body and forms a cyst connected to the defect.

Question 4

can i exercise with a ganglion cyst?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Depending on where the cyst is, you may have some pain or discomfort but it won't keep you from exercising.  If you are in doubt, ask your pcp or orthopedist (hand surgeon).  Usually found in the wrist.   Can occur elsewhere.

Question 5

what can happen when a ganglion cyst pops?

Accepted Answer

The fluid: Drains and it shrinks. Just keep area clean.

Question 6

could a ganglion cyst go away on it's own?

Accepted Answer

No: Ganglions can wax and wane changing in size and symptoms but do not typically disappear on their own.

Question 7

ganglion cyst: how often do they grow back?

Accepted Answer

Rarely: About 15% of the time a ganglion cyst can be recurrent. A lot depends on the incidence of infection and other factors (ie, drugs) that can influence primary healing.

Question 8

ganglion cyst  ....  comes and goes .. why ?

Accepted Answer

Ganglion cyst: It is like a bubble on a tire. If there is more pressure built up inside the joint, it will tend to expand the "bubble".

Question 9

is it painful to get a ganglion cyst removed?

Accepted Answer

Ganglion cyst: No, it's done under local anesthesia.

Question 10

how is a ganglion cyst diagnosed? flashlight?

Accepted Answer

Physical exam: Typically these cysts are readily diagnosed with a physical exam.  Certainly, imaging studies such as ultrasound and MRI can also be helpful but are not usually necessary.  Transilluminating the cyst with a "flashlight" is part of the physical exam and can help distinguish between a fluid filled mass and a solid one.

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Complex ganglion cyst

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What is a ganglion cyst?

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Can ganglion cyst get bigger?

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Can i exercise with a ganglion cyst?

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What can happen when a ganglion cyst pops?

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Could a ganglion cyst go away on it's own?

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Ganglion cyst: how often do they grow back?

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Ganglion cyst .... comes and goes .. why ?

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Is it painful to get a ganglion cyst removed?

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How is a ganglion cyst diagnosed? flashlight?

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