What is a Ganglion Cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a mass or lump that appears on the hand or wrist. They are very common and most often occur on the top of the wrist, on the palm side of the wrist, at the end joint of a finger, and at the base of a finger. People with ganglion cysts report having considerable pain, especially when the condition first appears or with constant or strenuous use of the hand. These types of cysts are not cancerous and their specific cause is not known.

How is it diagnosed?
Your physician will examine the location and appearance of the cyst. An x-ray may be required to rule out problems in nearby joints.

How are ganglion cysts treated?
Sometimes, the cyst is merely watched for any changes. However, some nonsurgical treatments may be called for if the cyst is painful, limits activity, or is simply unacceptable to the patient. Your physician might remove fluid from the cyst using a needle, or provide a splint to keep the hand or wrist stable. Hand surgery is also an option if these nonsurgical treatments do not produce the desired result.

With hand surgery, the source of the cyst is removed. In some cases, a portion of the joint capsule may be removed, too. Tenderness, discomfort and swelling are common after surgery.

Occasionally, therapy is required following surgery to regain better use of the hand. The Rehabilitation department at The Centre is staffed by highly skilled, professionally trained therapists who offer a unique variety of treatment options to help patients return to their normal routines as quickly and comfortably as possible.

You can resume full activity once comfort returns and your physician approves. Even with surgery, however, the cysts may recur.

Please contact our hand surgeons to schedule a consultation about your hand injury. The Centre for Working Hands offers treatment for ganglion cysts to patients in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, Michiana and the Southern Michigan area.

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