A cyst on the wrist or foot is most commonly a ganglion cyst (also called a synovial cyst). These are fluid-filled lumps that form near joints or tendons.
They are usually benign (not dangerous) — but they can be uncomfortable.
🩺 What Is It?
A ganglion cyst:
- Feels like a smooth, round lump
- May change size over time
- Can be painless — or cause pain, tingling, or weakness
- Commonly appears on the wrist (especially the back of the wrist) or the top of the foot
✅ What Should You Do?
1️⃣ Don’t Panic
Most ganglion cysts are harmless and may even go away on their own.
2️⃣ Avoid Popping It
Do not try to:
- Squeeze it
- Pop it
- Hit it (an old myth!)
This can cause infection or injury.
3️⃣ Rest the Area
Reducing repetitive movement may help shrink it.
You can also try:
- Wearing a wrist brace or supportive footwear
- Over-the-counter pain relievers if sore
👨⚕️ When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice if:
- It becomes painful
- You feel numbness or tingling
- It limits movement
- It grows quickly
- You’re unsure what it is
🏥 Medical Treatment Options
A doctor may recommend:
- Observation (if painless)
- Aspiration (draining the fluid with a needle)
- Surgical removal (if it keeps coming back or causes problems)
Even after treatment, cysts can sometimes return.
🚨 Important
If the lump:
- Is red, warm, very painful
- Appears suddenly after injury
- Comes with fever
Get medical care promptly.
If you’d like, tell me:
- Is it on the wrist or foot?
- Is it painful?
- How long has it been there?
I can help you think through next steps.