If you are noticing a fluid like lump on your foot, you probably have a ganglion cyst. Ganglion cysts are not cancerous and do not spread to other areas, however cysts may appear at multiple locations. They commonly appear on the hands and wrists and feet. Ganglion cysts form lumps beside joints or tendons and is filled with a viscous fluid. Irritation at a joint or tendon is believed to cause the formation of a ganglion cyst. They may grow in size or disappear spontaneously.
At Foot& Ankle Doctors, Inc we offer a variety of treatment options, which include:
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Monitoring – if the cyst is painless intervention may not be needed since it may disappear completely on its own
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Aspiration – placing a needle into the cyst to remove fluid and allow the cyst to decompress
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Shoe modifications – padding may be used to reduce irritation and pressure of the cyst
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Surgery – involves removing the cyst and a portion of the joint capsule or tendon sheath
It is important to note that regardless of the treatment option ganglion cysts may return, even with surgery.