Ganglion cyst, one of the causes of a lump in the wrist

The appearance of a lump in the wrist can be caused by ganglion cysts. Ganglion cysts are harmless and can disappear by themselves. Even so, if the condition causes pain and interferes with hand movements, then you should see a doctor. Not only occurs in the wrist, a lump due to ganglion cysts can also appear in other areas of the body close to the joint. However, the back of the hand, fingertips, and wrists are the most common locations for ganglion cysts.

Risk Factors for Lumps in the Wrist

This lump on the wrist arises because of a leak of synovial fluid. Synovial fluid has a thick texture like jelly and has the function to lubricate and protect joints when moving. This leaky synovial fluid will collect in a bag and form a lump. Not yet known exactly what causes the appearance of a lump due to ganglion cysts on the wrist. However, there are several factors that are thought to increase the risk of the appearance of the lump, namely:

• Suffered from osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis sufferers have a higher risk of getting ganglion cysts on the joints of the hands.

• Overuse joints

People who overuse their joints, for example for work or exercise, are more likely to get ganglion cysts.

• Have a history of injury to the joints and tendons

Joints or tendons that have been injured in the past are more likely to have ganglion cysts.

• Women aged 20-40 years

Ganglion cysts can affect anyone, but this condition is more common in women aged 20-40 years.

How to get rid of a lump in the wrist due to ganglion cysts

Some cases of ganglion cysts do not cause annoying complaints other than the appearance of a lump on the wrist, so no special treatment is needed to eliminate them. However, if ganglion cysts cause pain and interfere with joint movement, then the doctor can do the following treatments:

1. Immobilization (restrain joint movement)

This procedure is done to limit the movement of the affected joint. By holding back joint motion, it is hoped that the fluid buildup in the cyst can be reduced, so that the nerves are no longer depressed and pain can also subside.

2. Aspiration (siphoning fluid)

The action of aspiration is done by sticking a needle in the lump to remove fluid from the cyst. To maximize treatment and reduce the risk of ganglion cysts reappearing, doctors will usually inject anti-inflammatory drugs after performing this action.

3. Artoscopy

Artoscopy is done by making a small incision to insert a special instrument that has been equipped with a camera (arthroscope) into a joint or tendon. This procedure can also be used to remove ganglion cysts.

4. Operation

In surgical or surgical procedures, the doctor will remove ganglion cysts in the joint by making an incision about 5 cm long. Lumps in the wrist can be caused by ganglion cysts. Although ganglion cysts are not dangerous, but if this condition is disturbing or painful, you should see a doctor so that it can be treated.