Ganglion Cysts: Bumps in the Foot Health Road

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Ganglion cysts are sacs or cysts filled with fluid. They develop on top of a joint, ligament or tendon, frequently at the ankles and feet. Ganglion cysts can cause substantial discomfort and limit the range of motion significantly. 

Spotting a Ganglion Cyst

If you notice any or all of the following symptoms, it’s time to visit the podiatrist. With years of specialized training and experience, your foot doctor is the best-qualified professional to treat ganglion cysts of the foot or ankle in men, women, and children of all ages. Keep alert to:

  • A noticeable lump. Because of the gelatinous fluid inside, this may feel soft or squishy to the touch. Often, this lump is the first or only symptom you will experience
  • Tingling or burning, which may indicate that the cyst is touching a nerve
  • Dull pain or ache, which can mean that the cyst is pressing against a tendon or joint
  • Difficulty wearing shoes or engaging in your usual activities due to irritation between the lump and the shoe
  • Limited mobility because the lump is making it hard to point or flex your ankles or toes.

Treating Your Ganglion Cyst

If you can believe it, ganglion cysts were once called “Bible Cysts,” because the recommended treatment was to whack them with a heavy book until they burst! Happily, modern medicine offers better options.

If, after examination, your podiatrist determines that you are, in fact, dealing with a ganglion cyst, he or she will likely begin with a variety of non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatments, including over the counter and prescription medications to relieve pain and swelling and a needle biopsy to remove the fluid from the sac. These are effective solutions for most patients. If they don’t work for you, or if the cyst reappears, surgery to remove it is a possibility.

Are you worried that you have developed a ganglion cyst, or do you have any other concerns about the health or well-being of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? If so, call Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment to see James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS in our comfortable, modern office in Annapolis, MD. Dr. McKee will begin with a thorough examination and careful diagnosis, then work with you to create an individualized and effective plan for treatment and follow up care.

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