Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that commonly form near joints, especially the wrist, hand or ankle. These small, fluid-filled sacs are fairly common and may cause swelling, discomfort or pain in the affected area. While they can cause discomfort or even pain, ganglion cysts often go away on their own.
If not, they can be treated safely by a health care provider.
Tolga Turker, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Banner – University Medicine, shares insight on what causes ganglion cysts, how they’re diagnosed and when to consider treatment.
What is a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled lump that forms near a joint or tendon. It is usually harmless but can cause discomfort depending on its size and location.
What causes ganglion cysts?
Ganglion cysts typically form near joints or tendons. The cyst is filled with jelly-like fluid that leaks out from the joint or tendon sheath (the soft tissue surrounding a tendon). These cysts can develop when the area becomes irritated or injured.
“Anyone can get them,” Dr. Turker said. But some people are more at risk:
- Ganglion cysts are most common in young adults and women
- Athletes or people with jobs that involve repetitive joint motion may develop them more often
- Joint injuries or osteoarthritis may also increase your risk
What are the symptoms of a ganglion cyst?
A ganglion cyst looks like a soft lump under the skin. It may be as small as a pea or as large as a grape. Common symptoms include:
- Achiness or discomfort, especially if the cyst presses on a nerve or joint
- Swelling that comes and goes
- Skin over the cyst that appears shiny or stretched
- Limited range of motion or weakness in the nearby joint
- Pain that increases with joint or tendon use
“Joint fluid can flow in and out of the cyst, causing it to change size and your symptoms to fluctuate,” Dr. Turker said.
Some ganglion cysts are harder to detect, especially if they’re deeper or smaller. These are called occult ganglions and may only show up on imaging.
Do ganglion cysts go away on their own?
Many ganglion cysts go away without treatment, especially if they are not causing pain or limiting movement. However, some may persist or come back over time.
How are ganglion cysts diagnosed?
If you notice a lump, it’s best to have it checked by a health care provider. It could be a ganglion cyst—or something else.
“Cysts usually form due to an underlying issue in the joint or tendon,” said Dr. Turker. “Treating the root cause can help prevent them from coming back.”
To confirm a ganglion cyst diagnosis, your provider may:
- Perform a physical exam to check the size, shape and movement
- Review your medical history to spot injury or overuse
- Order imaging tests like ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to see the soft tissues
- Use transillumination (shining a light through the cyst)
- Aspirate the cyst by drawing out some fluid for testing
How do you treat a ganglion cyst?
There are several ways to treat ganglion cysts. Your provider will guide you based on your symptoms and lifestyle.
1. Watch and wait
Many ganglion cysts go away on their own, especially if they’ve been present for less than six months. If it’s not painful or affecting your movement, your provider may recommend observation.
2. Aspiration
A provider can use a thin needle to drain the jelly-like fluid from the cyst. While this may provide relief, the cyst may come back.
3. Surgery to remove the cyst
If the cyst is painful, limits movement or keeps coming back, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove it. This is usually an outpatient procedure, and recovery time depends on the cyst’s location. Keep in mind that if arthritis or repetitive stress caused the cyst, it might return even after surgery.
Always talk to your provider before deciding how to treat or remove a ganglion cyst.
Can you pop a ganglion cyst at home?
Never try to pop or puncture a cyst yourself. Doing so can cause infection, damage to soft tissues or recurrence. Work with your health care provider for safe and effective treatment.
How to relieve ganglion cyst pain at home
Here are some simple ways to reduce discomfort from a ganglion cyst:
- Apply warm compresses to ease swelling and pain
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Limit activities that aggravate the joint
- Wear protective padding or a brace/splint for support
- Try gentle hand or wrist exercises to maintain flexibility
Can you prevent ganglion cysts?
You can’t always stop ganglion cysts from forming, but these steps may lower your risk:
- Protect your joints with splints or ergonomic supports during repetitive tasks
- Use safety gear during sports or heavy lifting
- Stay active, hydrated and follow a joint-healthy lifestyle
- See your doctor early if you notice new lumps or discomfort
Frequently asked questions about ganglion cysts
Are ganglion cysts dangerous?
No, they are usually harmless, but they can cause discomfort or limit movement.
Can a ganglion cyst go away without treatment?
Yes, many cysts resolve on their own over time.
What causes a ganglion cyst to form?
They often form when fluid leaks from a joint or tendon due to irritation or injury.
When should you see a doctor for a ganglion cyst?
You should see a provider if the cyst is painful, growing or affecting movement.
When should you see a doctor for a ganglion cyst?
Ganglion cysts are usually harmless, but it’s still smart to get them checked. Your provider can confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best treatment, whether that’s watching it closely or planning surgery to remove it.
At Banner Health, we’re here to help you understand your condition and get back to doing what you love—without pain. Schedule online with a Banner Health provider today.
Recommended reading
- What Is the Difference Between a Cyst and a Tumor?
- Crush Your Fitness Goals, Not Your Wrists: Tips for Injury Prevention
- Why and How You Should Be Strengthening Your Hands and Wrists
Content in this article was updated on April 8, 2026.
