Ganglion cyst in the foot and ankle

What is a ganglion cyst?

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled cysts that can develop around joints or tendons. They commonly occur around the wrist and hand, but can also occur in the foot and ankle. The joints and tendon sheaths in the body are coated with a lubricating fluid called synovial fluid, which allows the joints and tendons to move freely. Ganglion cysts develop when the joint or tendon sheath has a leak of synovial fluid. This fluid leaks into a small pouch creating a cyst. The cyst can manifest as a round lump within the joint or on a tendon.

What are the signs and symptoms of ganglion cysts?

The main sign of a ganglion cyst is the formation of a round lump in the foot or ankle. The area can be soft or firm. The cyst may increase or decrease in size based on how much fluid is leaking or being absorbed back into the joint. Most ganglion cysts are not painful; however, the cyst may begin to ache if it is squeezed or pressure is applied.

What causes ganglion cysts?

The exact cause of ganglion cysts is unknown; however, they are most common in children 15 years of age or older. They are also seen more frequently in individuals who are born female.

What happens if there is a change in ganglion cyst size or level of discomfort?

If repetitive movements make the cyst bigger, your child's health-care provider may recommend resting the area. They may also recommend using anti-inflammatory medications for pain and discomfort.

How are ganglion cysts diagnosed?

A health-care provider can usually diagnose a ganglion cyst by examining its size, location and how it feels. An ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be needed for diagnosis in some situations.

How are ganglion cysts treated?

Many ganglion cysts go away on their own without medical treatment. If the ganglion cyst is not causing pain or limiting movement then a health-care provider may recommend waiting and watching the area to see if it improves on its own.

If the ganglion cyst does not go away on its own, and it is causing problems for your child, options include activity modification and immobilization with a brace or splint. Splinting involves using a brace or splint to support your child's foot or ankle to keep the area still and the ganglion cyst from moving. This can prevent irritation and may help reduce swelling of the ganglion cyst.

Surgery is not recommended for children, as younger patients have a higher risk of cyst recurrence.

How do you care for your child with a ganglion cyst?

You can encourage your child to rest the area if it is causing them pain. You may also provide over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil), naproxen (e.g., Aleve) or acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol). Learn how acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be used to help make your child more comfortable.

When should your child see a health-care provider?

If the area is becoming very painful or causing problems for your child, you should make an appointment to see a health-care provider.

At SickKids

We do not accept referrals for ganglion cysts of the foot and ankle at SickKids as this condition typically without treatment. Persistently symptomatic ganglion cysts can be referred to an adult orthopod at a partner hospital in the community.