Tempted to Pop a Ganglion Cyst? Here’s Why You Should Leave It to Experts

So, you saw someone on YouTube pop a ganglion cyst, and now you’re wondering if you even need to go to the doctor at all to have yours checked out. The answer is yes – while a ganglion cyst may sometimes rupture or go away on its own, attempting to pop it yourself can lead to serious complications.   

In this article, we’ll consider the risks of popping a ganglion cyst at home and discuss when you should see an orthopedic doctor to treat the condition. 

What Is a Ganglion Cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous fluid-filled lump that most often develops near tendons or joints on the wrist or hand, though they may also occur in the ankles and feet. They’re typically painless, though in some cases they may cause discomfort or pain, or affect joint movement. 

The exact cause of ganglion cysts isn’t known.

Should You Pop a Ganglion Cyst at Home?  

Attempting to pop or drain a ganglion cyst at home poses serious risks and is not recommended. To avoid complications, you should consult with a doctor who specializes in conditions of the hand, such as an orthopedic hand doctor. 

What Are the Risks of Popping a Ganglion Cyst at Home?

Because a ganglion cyst is connected to a joint or tendon sheath, popping the cyst at home may introduce bacteria and cause an infection of the joint. Another risky and inadvisable home remedy involves hitting the cyst with a heavy object, which can cause pain and damage to the tissues, bones, and tendons of the hands.

Other risks of popping a ganglion cyst or applying force to it on your own include:

• Recurrence of the cyst, in which the cyst bursts, but the fluid relocates
• Misdiagnosing a different kind of lump as a ganglion cyst 
• Damage to tissues, nerves or blood vessels around the cyst
• Potential for permanent scarring and significant pain 

To avoid infection, pain, and other complications, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

When Should You See an Orthopedic Doctor for a Ganglion Cyst?

Ganglion cysts don’t always need to be removed. Many are harmless and resolve on their own, but it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. 

See a doctor if the cyst is recurring, causes pain, limits your ability to use your hand, or otherwise impacts your daily activities. You may also want to have it removed for cosmetic reasons. Your doctor can make a proper diagnosis and determine the right treatment based on your symptoms.

How Are Ganglion Cysts Removed?

If your cyst is causing pain or other complications, we may recommend treatment options including:

• Draining the cyst with a needle, also called aspiration. The area around the cyst will be cleaned and sterilized, and a local anesthetic may be applied. A needle and a syringe will be used to remove the fluid inside the cyst. Sometimes this treatment is effective, though ganglion cysts have a high recurrence rate after being drained and may grow back.  
• Surgery to remove the cyst. If the cyst continues to recur, surgery is an option. This involves removing the ganglion cyst and its stalk, which is connected to the underlying joint or tendon sheath. This approach helps minimize the chance of recurrence. Ganglion cyst removal is often an outpatient procedure and can be performed using a minimally invasive technique known as arthroscopy, or in some cases, an open procedure.

Is a Ganglion Cyst Causing You Pain or Discomfort? Our Board-Certified Orthopedic Doctors in Raleigh Are Ready to Help

While a ganglion cyst may not always need to be removed, it’s a good idea to have it examined by a physician with expertise in treating conditions of the hand to avoid potential problems. 

Our team of specialists has extensive experience in treating ganglion cysts and other hand disorders. We can advise you on the most effective treatment based on your situation and help you get back to your normal daily activities.  We invite you to contact us for an appointment today.