Lump on the wrist - Ganglion Cyst

Have you noticed a smooth, round lump appearing on your wrist or hand, perhaps one that seems to come and go or grows larger when you use your hand more? You are not alone — this is one of the most common lumps seen in hand and wrist clinics, and in the vast majority of cases it is entirely benign.

What is it?

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops near a joint or tendon sheath — most commonly on the back of the wrist, though it can also appear on the palm side, at the base of a finger, or around the fingertip. The fluid inside is thick and jelly-like, similar to the lubricating fluid found in your joints. The cyst itself is not cancerous and does not spread; it is simply a harmless outpouching of tissue from the joint lining or tendon covering.

Why does it happen?

The exact cause is not fully understood, but ganglion cysts often arise after repetitive stress or minor injury to a joint or tendon. They are more common in women and tend to appear most frequently in people between the ages of 20 and 40, although anyone can develop one. People who use their wrists intensively — whether through sport, typing, or manual work — may be more prone to them. In some cases they appear with no obvious trigger at all.

When should I see a hand surgeon?

Many ganglion cysts are painless and need no treatment, but you should seek an assessment if the lump is painful or tender, if it is growing quickly, if it is interfering with your grip or day-to-day activities, or if you are simply unsure what the swelling is. It is always worth having any new lump on the hand or wrist assessed by a specialist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other, less common causes. If the lump becomes very firm, changes colour, or is associated with numbness or weakness, please seek advice promptly.

How is it treated?

Many ganglion cysts resolve on their own without any treatment, and watchful waiting is often the first approach, particularly if the cyst is not causing symptoms. If it is painful or troublesome, aspiration — drawing the fluid out with a needle — can provide relief, though the cyst may return in time. For cysts that are recurrent or persistently bothersome, surgical removal (excision) is a reliable option that offers a low rate of recurrence. The procedure is typically performed as a day case under local or regional anaesthetic, and recovery is usually straightforward.

If you have noticed a lump on your wrist or hand and would like a specialist opinion, Mr Sedwards would be happy to see you. Please visit londonhandandwristsurgeon.com to book a consultation.