A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops near a joint or tendon. The cyst contains a thick, jelly-like fluid similar to the fluid that helps joints and tendons move smoothly.

Ganglion cysts can vary in size. They are benign, which means they are not cancerous. Some cysts stay the same size for years. Others may grow, shrink or go away without treatment.

Ganglion cysts are most common in the wrist and hand, but they can develop near any joint or tendon.
Ganglion cysts vary in size and may change over time. Some stay small and cause no symptoms. Others become more noticeable during activity.

You may experience:

A smooth, round, or oval lump beneath the skin

A lump that changes in size over time

Pain or discomfort around the affected joint

Reduced movement in the affected joint

Tingling or numbness if the cyst presses on a nearby nerve

Symptoms that become more noticeable during repeated movement or activity

Ganglion cysts most commonly develop on the back of the wrist, although they can also occur on the front of the wrist, fingers, hands, ankles, or feet.
The exact cause of a ganglion cyst is not always clear. A cyst may develop when fluid leaks from a joint or from the tissue around a tendon and collects under the skin.

Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing a ganglion cyst, including:

Repetitive use of the wrist or hand

Previous injury to a joint or tendon

Irritation of the tissues surrounding a joint

Osteoarthritis affecting the finger joints

Being between the ages of 20 and 50, although ganglion cysts can occur at any age

Many people develop a ganglion cyst without any obvious injury or underlying condition.
Diagnosis begins with a detailed consultation and examination by your specialist.

Your assessment may include:

A discussion about your symptoms and when you first noticed the lump

Examination of the size, shape, and location of the cyst

Assessment of movement in the affected joint

Examination for tenderness or signs that the cyst is pressing on a nearby nerve

If further assessment is needed, your consultant may recommend imaging tests, including:

Ultrasound, to confirm whether the lump is fluid-filled and assess nearby soft tissues

MRI, to provide detailed images of the cyst and surrounding structures if the diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms are more complex

X-rays, if another condition affecting the joint is suspected

Different people need different tests. Your diagnostic plan will be based on your symptoms and examination findings.
Many people ask how to treat ganglion cyst symptoms. The most appropriate treatment depends on whether the cyst is causing pain, limiting movement or affecting your daily activities.Some ganglion cysts do not require treatment and may reduce in size or disappear over time. If the cyst is causing symptoms, your treatment plan may include:

Observation: If the cyst is painless and does not interfere with movement, your consultant may recommend monitoring it rather than immediate treatment.

Wrist or joint support: A splint or brace may be recommended for a short period to reduce movement and ease discomfort if the cyst is affecting the wrist.

Aspiration: In some cases, your consultant may recommend aspiration, a procedure in which fluid is removed from the cyst using a needle. While this can reduce the size of the cyst and relieve symptoms, the cyst may return over time.

Further treatment: If symptoms continue despite treatment, your consultant can discuss whether further assessment or additional treatment options are appropriate.

Although Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London does not offer surgery, we collaborate with leading healthcare professionals who are able to carry out these procedures when appropriate.
Patients choose Mayo Clinic Healthcare for access to experienced orthopaedic specialists and coordinated care for conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and other joints.

Our approach includes:

Consultant-led assessment and diagnosis

Access to advanced imaging, including MRI, ultrasound, and X-ray where appropriate

Personalised treatment plans based on your symptoms and lifestyle

Collaboration with orthopaedic and diagnostic imaging specialists

Evidence-based care informed by international clinical expertise

As part of the globally recognised Mayo Clinic network, we are committed to helping you understand your condition and supporting you throughout your care.

Book your appointment

If you have noticed a lump on your wrist, hand, or foot, or would like advice on how to treat a ganglion cyst, our specialists can assess the cause and discuss treatment options. Request an appointment or call +44 (0) 207 871 2575 to speak with our team.