Ganglion Cysts

About Ganglion Cysts of the Wrist and Hand

A ganglion cyst is a full pocket of fluid creating a firm bump in the hand or wrist. It’s a collection of the fluid that helps the bones and tendons move easier. They can look strange, but they’re harmless. Ganglion cysts can occur in various locations, but they are most common on the back of the wrist.

Treating Ganglion Cysts at UT Health Austin

Our team examines the bump and can usually determine whether it is ganglion cyst. You might have slight pain with push-ups and similar activities. If you experience more than a little pain, it is probably not coming from the ganglion. The cyst can go away on its own. It usually comes back if you pop it with a needle. Surgery to remove the cyst is an option. After surgery, you may no longer have the bump, but you will have a scar. After surgery, there is a 1 in 10 chance the ganglion cyst will return within about a year.

Care Team Approach

At UT Health Austin, we take a multidisciplinary approach to your care. This means you will benefit from the expertise of multiple specialists across a variety of disciplines caring for you in one place to avoid having to schedule multiple appointments with providers at locations all over the city. The Musculoskeletal Institute care team includes orthopedic surgeons, sports medicine physicians, physician assistants, physical therapists, physiatrists, chiropractors, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, and more who work together to help you get back to the things in your life that matter most to you.

We collaborate with our colleagues at the Dell Medical School and The University of Texas at Austin to utilize the latest research, diagnostic, and treatment techniques, allowing us to customize a treatment plan specific to you. Treatment may include nonsurgical interventions, such as lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, or medication and injections, or surgery may be the best course of action to help improve your pain and function. Advanced imaging and lab testing are also available on-site if needed.

Learn More About Your Care Team