Ganglion Cyst Of The Wrist
A ganglion cyst is a small, fluid-filled sac (or cyst) that develops in the wrist which can become painful and visually prominent. It more commonly occurs on top of the wrist but can also develop on the palm side of the wrist next to where one would check their pulse. Ganglion cysts are benign and are connected to the wrist joint through deep tissue. Typically the size of the cyst can grow and shrink depending on the activity level and use of the wrist; fluid from the wrist joint in turn inflates and deflates the cyst. Occasionally, the ganglion cyst may interfere with activities. Symptoms of a ganglion cyst are characterized as development of a mass directly under the skin accompanied by mild pain with movement of the wrist. The diagnosis of a ganglion cyst can be made with physical examination by a physician and if necessary confirmed with an MRI.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you have a ganglion cyst
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
- Stretch before, during, and after an activity, to allow for more joint and nerve mobility.
- Immobilization of the wrist take place in a Wrist Brace or Thumb Spica Orthosis