Ganglion cysts may sound unusual or even scary, but they are noncancerous lumps that are usually nothing to worry about. These small, fluid-filled sacs can appear near joints—often on the hands, wrists or ankles—and they’re fairly common. While they can cause discomfort or even pain, ganglion cysts often go away on their own.
If not, they can be treated safely by a health care provider.
Tolga Turker, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Banner – University Medicine, shares insight on what causes ganglion cysts, how they’re diagnosed and when to consider treatment.
What causes ganglion cysts to form in joints and tendon sheaths?
Ganglion cysts typically form near joints or tendons. The cyst is filled with jelly-like fluid that leaks out from the joint or tendon sheath (the soft tissue surrounding a tendon). These cysts can develop when the area becomes irritated or injured.
“Anyone can get them,” Dr. Turker said. But some people are more at risk:
- Ganglion cysts are most common in young adults and women
- Athletes or people with jobs that involve repetitive joint motion may develop them more often
- Joint injuries or osteoarthritis may also increase your risk
What are the signs and symptoms of a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst looks like a soft lump under the skin. It may be as small as a pea or as large as a grape. Common symptoms include:
- Achiness or discomfort, especially if the cyst presses on a nerve or joint
- Swelling that comes and goes
- Skin over the cyst that appears shiny or stretched
- Limited range of motion or weakness in the nearby joint
- Pain that increases with joint or tendon use
“Joint fluid can flow in and out of the cyst, causing it to change size and your symptoms to fluctuate,” Dr. Turker said.
Some ganglion cysts are harder to detect, especially if they’re deeper or smaller. These are called occult ganglions and may only show up on imaging.
How do doctors diagnose ganglion cysts in the wrist, hand or ankle?
If you notice a lump, it’s best to have it checked by a health care provider. It could be a ganglion cyst—or something else.
“Cysts usually form due to an underlying issue in the joint or tendon,” said Dr. Turker. “Treating the root cause can help prevent them from coming back.”
To confirm a ganglion cyst diagnosis, your provider may:
- Perform a physical exam to check the size, shape and movement
- Review your medical history to spot injury or overuse
- Order imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI to see the soft tissues
- Use transillumination (shining a light through the cyst)
- Aspirate the cyst by drawing out some fluid for testing
How are ganglion cysts treated? Options for relief and removal
There are several ways to treat ganglion cysts. Your provider will guide you based on your symptoms and lifestyle.
1. Watch and wait
Many ganglion cysts go away on their own, especially if they’ve been present for less than six months. If it’s not painful or affecting your movement, your provider may recommend observation.
2. Aspiration
A provider can use a thin needle to drain the jelly-like fluid from the cyst. While this may provide relief, the cyst may come back.
3. Surgery to remove the cyst
If the cyst is painful, limits movement or keeps coming back, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove it. This is usually an outpatient procedure, and recovery time depends on the cyst’s location. Keep in mind that if arthritis or repetitive stress caused the cyst, it might return even after surgery.
Always talk to your provider before deciding how to treat or remove a ganglion cyst.
Why you shouldn’t try to treat or pop a ganglion cyst at home
Never try to pop or puncture a cyst yourself. Doing so can cause infection, damage to soft tissues or recurrence. Work with your health care provider for safe and effective treatment.
How can you relieve ganglion cyst pain and discomfort at home?
Here are some simple ways to reduce discomfort from a ganglion cyst:
- Apply warm compresses to ease swelling and pain
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Limit activities that aggravate the joint
- Wear protective padding or a brace/splint for support
- Try gentle hand or wrist exercises to maintain flexibility
How to prevent ganglion cysts and protect your joints
You can’t always stop ganglion cysts from forming, but these steps may lower your risk:
- Protect your joints with splints or ergonomic supports during repetitive tasks
- Use safety gear during sports or heavy lifting
- Stay active, hydrated and follow a joint-healthy lifestyle
- See your doctor early if you notice new lumps or discomfort
When should you see a doctor about a ganglion cyst?
Ganglion cysts are usually harmless, but it’s still smart to get them checked. Your provider can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment, whether that’s watching it closely or planning surgery to remove it.
At Banner Health, we’re here to help you understand your condition and get back to doing what you love—without pain. Schedule online with a Banner Health provider today.
Recommended reading
- What Is the Difference Between a Cyst and a Tumor?
- Crush Your Fitness Goals, Not Your Wrists: Tips for Injury Prevention
- Why and How You Should Be Strengthening Your Hands and Wrists
Content in this article was updated on April 25, 2025.
