Cysts in your foot (ganglion cysts) aren’t a serious medical issue, although they can certainly be overwhelmingly painful and uncomfortable. With flexible scheduling available for in-office cyst procedures at The Foot Doctors of Santa Cruz County, you can get relief right away. Book your foot cyst appointment by requesting an appointment online, or by calling the Watsonville or Santa Cruz, California, location directly.
Cyst Q & A
Why do I have foot cysts?
Foot cysts, medically known as ganglion cysts, are non-cancerous fluid-filled lumps that grow out of the lining (sheath) of your tendon or in your joint capsule. While ganglion cysts most commonly develop in your wrists, you can certainly have them in your feet or ankles, too, possibly due to:
- Trauma or repetitive use
- Osteoarthritis
- Age (they’re common between the ages of 20-40)
For an unknown reason, women are more likely to develop cysts, although they can certainly affect men as well. In most cases, it isn’t known exactly why you develop foot cysts, although you still have plenty of options for relief if you’re in pain.
Are there symptoms of a foot cyst?
Yes. Usually, cysts are visible, forming a lump over a tendon or joint. They’re usually oval in shape and less than 2.5 centimeters in diameter. Sometimes though, they’re so small, they’re not visible, and they’re difficult to feel.
You might find that your cyst gets bigger when you’re performing repetitive motions. For instance, if you have a ganglion cyst across your ankle joint, it may be larger after you go out for a run.
Most foot (or ankle) cysts are painless, although if your cyst is pressing on a nerve, it can lead to agonizing stabbing sensations. You might also experience tingling, muscle weakness, or numbness.
What is the treatment for a foot cyst?
The caring podiatry team at The Foot Doctors of Santa Cruz County works hard to ensure they effectively treat your cyst, so you can get relief from discomfort immediately. Usually, ganglion cysts that develop on your feet or ankles need to be drained through a simple in-office procedure.
Your podiatrist thoroughly numbs the treatment area, makes a small incision, and thoroughly drains the cyst. Depending on the size of your cyst and your personal history, they may need to remove your cyst and the short stalk that attaches it to your bone or soft tissue. Removing the cyst is usually the best way to treat cysts that keep coming back.
Schedule your cyst evaluation at The Foot Doctors of Santa Cruz County today. Book online or over the phone.