Ganglion cysts, beware if there are lumps containing water in the hand

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps resembling gels that usually grow along the tendons or joints of the wrist. If ganglion cysts appear accompanied by pain or tingling, immediately take it to the doctor to get the right treatment. Ganglion cysts range in size from peas to 2.5 cm in diameter. In addition to the hands or wrists, these cysts can also appear on the foot or ankle. As a result, the movement of the hand or foot can be disturbed. Until now, the exact cause is not yet known why ganglion cysts can form. There is a theory that says that this cyst is caused by an injury or collision that makes the joint tissue rupture to form many small cysts. These small cysts then unite and become larger in size. While other theories reveal the damage in joint capsules or tendon sheaths due to the aging process (degenerative) which allows joint tissue to protrude.

How to treat ganglion cysts

Ganglion cysts are usually not painful, can heal by themselves, and disappear without any treatment, even though it takes years. Patients with ganglion cysts will generally be advised to rest and reduce movement in the part that there is a lump. However, if the cyst is accompanied by pain, tenderness, numbness, numbness, or muscle weakness, this means that the cyst has pressed the adjacent nerves. For that there are ways that can be done to treat it, namely:
  • Immobilization

  • The area where the ganglion cyst is located can be fitted with a splint or a brace for a while. The aim is to limit the motion of the affected area so that the cyst does not enlarge. When the cysts shrink, the pain subsides because the pressure of the ganglion cysts on the surrounding nerves relaxes. Splint or brace is recommended not to use in the long run because it can cause the muscles in the surrounding area to weaken. To prevent muscle weakness, this treatment method is often accompanied by physiotherapy.
  • Aspiration (desludging)

  • Aspiration is a simple and painless procedure. Patients can even leave the hospital immediately after the procedure is finished. In this procedure, the doctor drains fluid from the cyst using a syringe. This method is often the first choice for treating ganglion cysts because the risk is considered lower when compared to surgery. Unfortunately, this procedure has a weakness, namely ganglion cysts can grow back. If that's the case, the only way to go is surgery.
  • Operation

  • There are two types of surgery that can be used to remove ganglion cysts. The procedure is determined by considering the location of the ganglion cyst, the anesthetic used, and the doctor's opinion. The two types of operations are:

    -Open operation


    In this procedure, the doctor makes an incision about 5 cm long above the location of the ganglion cyst.

    -Arthroscopic surgery


    Also called the arthroscopic procedure. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small incision to insert a small camera (arthroscope) that makes it easy for them to see inside the joint. Then the arthroscope is used as a guide tool to remove ganglion cysts.
As long as the ganglion cyst is still perched on your hand or foot, it is recommended not to squeeze, pierce, or hit it. Besides being ineffective, this method can also cause infection. If there are suddenly lumps in your hands or feet, it is advisable to consult a doctor to get the right treatment.

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