Last updated on May 24th, 2024 at 08:11 pm
- Wrist cyst ganglion is a common condition that affects both men and women.
- It is a non-cancerous lump that usually appears on the wrist joint or hand.
- While the cause of wrist cyst ganglion is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to joint or tendon irritation.
- Although it is usually painless, it can cause discomfort, especially when pressing on nearby nerves or tendons.
- Various exercise management techniques can help alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.
When you notice a small lump-like swelling on the dorsal aspect of the wrist, chances are it is a ganglion cyst. Most wrist ganglion cyst cases are not painful, and the person is usually concerned about their cosmetic looks. Some sufferers complain of pain in wrist movement, and pain even radiates to the arm.
Whatever it may be in the early stage, it can easily be managed by following simple ganglion cyst wrist exercises. In this article, we will learn easy exercises for ganglion cysts in the wrist. We will also cover the signs and symptoms to understand wrist ganglion cysts better. So, let us get started.
What are ganglion cyst wrist and what causes it
Ganglia are actually benign soft tissue tumours most commonly seen in the wrist joint. Although they can also be found in other joints, 60% to 70% of wrist ganglia are found on the dorsal aspect of the wrist1.
These cysts are connected to the underlying joint through a pedicle and filled with fluid, mainly hyaluronic acid.
But what causes it?
Although the exact cause of fluid filling this cyst is unknown, two proposed mechanisms exist.
- The first mechanism proposes that it may originate from within the joint, pumped into the cyst by the wrist’s motion through the pedicle.
- The second mechanism suggests fluid from an extra-articular degenerative process may form cysts and then communicate with the joint.
- Any of the mechanisms could be the possible cause, or a combination of these mechanisms could contribute 1.
- It is believed that acute or chronic joint stress may cause ganglion cysts in the wrist.
Symptoms of Ganglions
The symptoms of ganglion cysts include:
- A noticeable lump that is typically round or oval and filled with a jelly-like fluid. On palpation, it will feel like a soft rubber ball and is painful if you put overpressure on it.
- Most wrist ganglion cysts do not have symptoms besides swelling2. For others, pain in the wrist is the most common symptom and is more annoying than debilitating.
- In more advanced cases, pain may also radiate up the patient’s arm, decreasing range of motion and grip strength.
- While ganglion cysts are generally harmless and often don’t require treatment, they can cause pain or limit movement, in which case medical attention may be necessary.
Easy exercises for ganglion cyst in the wrist
Most cases are asymptomatic; reassurance and observation are the treatment of choice for them. This is because, in 58% of cases, the swelling reduces spontaneously without intervention2. The exercises we will learn can also be followed safely for recovery from ganglion cyst wrist surgery, except for the self-massage technique.
1. Self-massage to reduce the size of wrist nodule
The first exercise among the list of ganglion cyst wrist exercises is a self-massage technique. In most cases, only applying this self-massage technique is enough to resolve the nodule. To perform this self-massage technique, you need to use your thumb.
- Start by placing your thumb over the lump and applying light pressure.
- Gradually increase the pressure and then rotate your thumb in a circular motion, as demonstrated in the figure.
- As you rotate your thumb, continue to apply pressure to the lump.
- It’s recommended that you perform this self-massage every morning or whenever you have free time, whether you’re at work or at home.
2. Wrist flexion-extension
This straightforward but powerful exercise strengthens the wrist. It can be done while sitting or standing.
- First, sit or stand up straight and extend your arm at shoulder level, with your palm facing down.
- Then, slowly and smoothly bend your wrist up and down.
- Repeat this motion of bending and straightening your wrist at least 15 to 20 times in one session.
3. Wrist radial ulnar deviation ganglion wrist exercises
The next set of exercises for a ganglion cyst in the wrist involves radial and ulnar deviation. Radial deviation refers to bending the wrist towards the thumb, while ulnar deviation involves bending the wrist towards the little finger.
- Start by positioning your hand with the palm facing inwards, similar to the previous exercise.
- From this position, slowly and smoothly move your wrist into radial and ulnar deviation, trying to reach the full range of motion.
- Aim to perform this motion 15 to 20 times in a session.
Surgical removal of wrist ganglion
In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove the cyst. However, other less invasive procedures may also be used to treat ganglion cysts. Aspiration, steroid injection sclerotherapy, and hyaluronidase were generally ineffective.
Aspiration is the simplest method in which the syringe is used to remove fluid from the nodule. However, it has a high recurrence rate. Many clinicians prefer brace immobilization after aspiration2.
Finally, the surgical removal of ganglion cyst with its pedicle is considered the most effective treatment.
FAQ on wrist ganglion
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Dr Sunit Sanjay Ekka is a physiotherapist in practice for the last 15 years. He has done his BPT from one of the premium Central Government physiotherapy colleges, ie, SVNIRTAR. The patient is his best teacher and whatever he gets to learn he loves to share it on his Youtube channel and blog.
