Ganglion cysts are usually non-malignant lesions which are typically filled with fluid and are found to be present around the tendons of the wrist and the ankle joint. Experts suggest that a ganglion cyst is formed as a result of accumulation of interstitial fluid, between the sheaths that surround and protect the tendons and ligaments.
Inflammation of the sheath causes this fluid to get logged in the form of a cyst, which is associated with a host of symptoms including pain and restricted mobility.
What Causes Ganglion Cyst On Hand?
The causes for the formation of ganglion cysts are not clearly understood, however there are certain risk factors that are associated with the condition,
- Trauma or injury to the wrist joint is considered to be one of the risk factors associated with the formation of the ganglion.
- Excessive overuse of the joint or undue stress on the joint can also result in the formation of ganglion.
- Inflammation of the tendon sheets around the affected joint can also lead to ganglion cysts. Inflammation is usually triggered either by unnatural overuse or due to trauma of injury.
- Occasionally ganglion cysts may trigger symptoms similar to carpel tunnel syndrome.
Ganglion cysts are frequently observed around the wrist joint and less frequently around the ankle joint. Ganglion cysts rarely affect any other joints in the body.
Symptoms Of Ganglion Cyst In Hand
The symptoms associated with ganglion cysts include the following,
- Formation of an elevated, round, smooth lump around the wrist or fingers is the first sign of a ganglion cyst.
- The cyst is typically filled with fluid. ‘Trans illumination’ is a technique used to confirm the diagnosis by flashing a torch light on one side of the cyst and the appearance of shining light on the other side.
- In most cases the cyst is usually painless, but larger cysts may affect the nerves in and around the joint resulting in pain, numbness and generalized weakness.
- Cysts may also interfere with the mobility of the affected joint making it painful.
- Occasionally larger cysts may hamper the blood supply to the joint which may result in bluish discoloration of the nails and fingers.
Home Remedies For Ganglion Cyst On Wrist
While the cyst is usually considered harmless, some experts suggest that puncturing the cyst with a needle or a sharp object can alleviate the symptoms. However this technique can be associated with a host of complications like higher risk of reformation of the cyst and secondary infection.
Since most ganglion cysts are associated with infection certain natural immune boosters are recommended. Echinacea is a herb which contains properdine and it known to strengthen the immune system and naturally gets rid of the cysts. Liquorice herb contains natural anti-bacterial abilities which helps in natural removal of the fluid and hastens the healing process.
Homeopathic remedy Bryonia Alba in combination with Silicea is considered to be a very effective treatment. Both these remedies work towards absorbing the fluid naturally and alleviating the pain.
Avoid exercises or excretion of the affected joint, to hasten recovery and reduce discomfort. Hot compress might be helpful, but there is no evidence about its effectiveness.
In severe cases, drainage of the cyst may be performed; however this is associated with recurrent relapse of the condition and is not usually recommended, unless associated with severe and debilitating symptoms.