Interestingly, its size can change. Some people notice that the lump becomes more prominent with activity and smaller during periods of rest.
What Does a Ganglion Cyst Feel Like?
Many ganglion cysts don’t hurt at all.
When a cyst presses against nearby nerves or other structures, however, it may cause aching, tingling, weakness or problems moving the joint.
What Should You Do?
If the cyst isn’t painful and doesn’t interfere with normal movement, treatment may not be necessary. Some ganglion cysts shrink or disappear on their own.
If it causes significant pain or limits movement, a healthcare professional may recommend temporarily supporting the joint, draining the cyst with a needle (aspiration), or in some cases surgically removing it. A cyst can return even after treatment.
Never try to pop, puncture or hit a suspected ganglion
fluid-filled cyst. It is a firm, bony prominence near the base of the index or middle finger where the hand meets the wrist.
Because both can produce a visible bump in a similar area, people sometimes mistake one for the other.
A carpal boss may cause no symptoms at all. In other cases, repetitive wrist movement can be associated with discomfort or tenderness around the area.
What Should You Do?
If the bump doesn’t hurt or interfere with hand movement, treatment may not be necessary.
When symptoms occur, a healthcare professional may recommend modifying activities, temporary splinting or other treatments depending on the cause and severity.
Imaging such as an X-ray can sometimes help distinguish a bony carpal boss from other types of wrist lumps.
- Giant Cell Tumor of the Tendon Sheath
The name sounds alarming, but a giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath is typically a benign growth.
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