Foot Ganglion Cyst Treatment Specialist in Tustin, CA

A ganglion cyst is a bubble or lump that is filled with synovial fluid, a jelly-like fluid. It is noncancerous and usually harmless. They can be uncomfortable especially when they form on the foot. Ganglion cysts will develop near tendons or joints, usually around the wrist. But they can form on the ankle and feet, as well. The cysts tend to disappear over time and do not require treatment. But if the cyst is painful or limits the range of motion in a joint you should see a doctor for treatment.

A ganglion cyst on the foot will have the following symptoms:

• A visible lump
• A burning or tingling sensation it the cyst is pressing against a nerve
• Pain, such as a dull ache it the cyst presses against a tendon or joint
• It can cause irritation when wearing shoes

The average ganglion cyst on the foot will be about 2.7 centimeters or 1.06 inches in diameter. When these cysts form on the feet they will cause pain most of the time.

If you think you have a ganglion cyst on your foot you should make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can properly assess whether it is a cyst and how it is best treated. If a cyst is present, it will move easily under the skin when pressed. If the cyst isn’t visible through the skin, it may still be present. An ultrasound will be done to verify its presence, but these are quite rare.

The cyst might disappear without treatment, but on the feet, this is somewhat rare. If your cyst is not causing pain there is no need for treatment. You can just have your podiatrist monitor it to make sure it doesn’t get worse. If the cyst is painful, you can take over-the-counter painkillers to alleviate the pain. It is best to check with the pharmacist or your podiatrist on how these can impact your cyst. 

A warm compress can ease the pain. This can increase the blood flow in the area and may encourage it to drain on its own.

If your cyst is causing pain in your foot, you should change your footwear to something that won’t rub on the painful area. You can also use an insole or pad to cushion the area.

If the pain persists it may be necessary to have the cyst drained or removed surgically. In the most extreme cases, surgical removal is the best option. Your podiatrist will offer the best advice on how to treat this.

If you are dealing with a ganglion cyst on your foot that is painful or limiting the range of motion in your foot, you should see a podiatrist. Living in pain with something that can be treated is not necessary.

Most of the time a ganglion cyst that is problematic can be treated with what is called aspiration. This may be more easily understood as draining the cyst. The podiatrist will take a needle to pierce the cyst and drain it with a syringe to prevent infection. A ganglion cyst can return after it has been drained. If this happens, it will need to be surgically removed.

While you are waiting for treatment, you may want to wear different footwear that won’t irritate the cyst. Your podiatrist will offer recommendations on what will work to make you more comfortable.

Tustin Podiatry can help you with a ganglion cyst on the foot. Most of the time these cysts cause problems and pain. There is no need to deal with pain from these when you walk or do other activities. Don’t let ganglion cysts slow you down. Call to make an appointment and we will be glad to help you. We serve patients from Tustin CA, Irvine CA, Garden Grove CA, Orange CA, Anaheim CA, Costa Mesa CA, and Lake Forest CA.