Ganglions or cysts

5 June 2025

At The New Foscote Hospital in Banbury, we diagnose and treat ganglions and cysts with expert care and precision. These benign lumps are common and usually harmless but may require treatment if they become painful, interfere with movement, or cause concern.

What Are Ganglions and Cysts?

Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps typically found near joints or tendons — most commonly on the wrist, hand, ankle, or foot.
Other types of cysts can appear under the skin, such as sebaceous cysts, mucous cysts, or baker’s cysts (behind the knee).

Common Symptoms

A visible lump or swelling, often round and smooth.
Pain or tenderness, especially when pressing on the area or moving the joint.
Changes in size – cysts can grow or shrink over time.
Stiffness or weakness in the surrounding joint or muscle.
Some cysts may cause nerve compression, leading to tingling or numbness.

What Causes Ganglions and Cysts?

Joint or tendon irritation
Repetitive strain or injury
Underlying arthritis, particularly in older patients
Blocked glands (for other skin-based cysts)

When to Seek Medical Advice

While most ganglions and cysts are harmless, you should consult a specialist if:

You’re unsure if it’s a benign lump
The lump grows rapidly
It causes pain or restricts movement
It becomes red, warm, or inflamed

Diagnosis and Treatment at The New Foscote Hospital

We provide a thorough clinical assessment with access to ultrasound and MRI if needed. Treatment options include:

Observation – for painless, small cysts
Aspiration – draining the fluid with a needle
Surgical removal – for recurrent or bothersome ganglions/cysts

Book a Private Consultation in Banbury

Book a consultation today and let our expert team help you manage ganglions or cysts with confidence and care..

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Our Resident Specialists

Our Consultants and Surgeons are welcoming and highly experienced. They offer patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on patients’ future health.