Blisters, corns, and calluses are famous foot complaints. Ganglion cysts? Perhaps not so much.
Despite their lower profile, however, ganglion cysts affect many people and are one of the most common types of soft tissue noncancerous masses.
At Advanced Care Foot and Ankle in Corona and Ontario, California, our skilled staff of podiatric surgeons can diagnose and treat ganglion cysts along with a variety of other foot and ankle issues ranging from injuries to chronic conditions, and more. We provide individualized care with cutting-edge treatment plans to ensure recovery is as fast and complete as possible.
A ganglion cyst is a round or oval lump filled with jelly-like fluid that occurs under the surface of the skin. Often it appears along the tendons or joints or in an area nearby. It can develop near the ankle or toes as well as on the wrist or fingers.
The main symptom is a bump under the skin. The size can increase slowly over time or due to other factors such as when the joint near it is moved or with a change in the weather.
In some cases, there is no discomfort. Other times, there may be pain, numbness, or tingling. This can occur if the cyst puts pressure on a nerve or if the nearby joint or tendon is irritated or inflamed. Wearing tight shoes can contribute to symptoms.
The specific cause of ganglion cysts is unknown though some suspect they may occur after an injury. Anyone can develop one but they occur most often in women between the ages of 20 and 40.
Getting a timely diagnosis is important to rule out a cancerous tumor and to begin treatment if indicated.
Typically, a healthcare professional presses on the bump and may shine a light on it to see if it is translucent. In some cases, an aspiration is conducted to remove fluid for inspection and to decrease pain. An X-ray to check for a bone spur or arthritis, or an MRI to look at the soft tissue and bone, may also be recommended.
If the cyst has been definitively diagnosed and is not causing discomfort, treatment may not be necessary and it could disappear on its own.
If pain is involved, options may include taking anti-inflammatory medication, wearing shoes with a spacious toe box and tying shoelaces loosely, and using a pad, splint, or compression bandage.
For those who don't find sufficient relief with home treatment, a doctor can drain the fluid (though it may return along with symptoms). Outpatient surgery is another option for those who have not found relief through other means.
If you've discovered a lump on your foot or ankle, it's important to get a prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment plan in place especially if it's causing discomfort or other symptoms. We can help.
Click to book an appointment or call the Corona office at 951-735-8806 or the Ontario office at 909-983-5710 today.