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What are Ganglions?
 A
ganglion is a fluid-filled swelling of the lining of a joint or
tendon. Although ganglions can form on any part of the foot, they
most often appear on the ankle or top of the foot. Ganglions tend
to change in size and usually grow slowly.
Causes
Repeated irritation can weaken the lining of a joint or tendon and
lead to ganglions. People who wear boots are more vulnerable to
ganglions, as this type of footwear puts stress on the foot and
ankle. Bone spurs (bony outgrowths) may also cause ganglions by
irritating the joints and tendons.
Symptoms
Ganglions often form with no symptoms. But if the ganglion puts
pressure on the nerves in the overlying skin, it can cause tingling,
numbness, or pain. Ganglions sometimes swell and their size can
change with different activities or a change in weather.
How are They
Diagnosed?
 Because
ganglions are sometimes mistaken for tumors, it’s important
to have a complete examination and, possibly, tests to confirm the
diagnosis.
Medical History
Your podiatrist asks you questions such as how long you’ve
had the ganglion, what kind of symptoms you’re feeling, if
it has changed in size, or if its size varies according to your
activities.
Physical Exam
During your evaluation, your podiatrist may do a translumination
exam, shining a light through the swelling (usually, you can see
through a ganglion, but not through a tumor). When your foot is
palpated (pressed), a ganglion feels spongy and the fluid moves
from side to side.
Tests
If a bone spur is suspect-ed, x-rays may be needed. Fluid removal
(needle aspiration) may be done to help determine the degree of
swelling and to decrease pain. To confirm a ganglion, magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) may be done, which reveals images of soft tissue
and bone. Sometimes, special dyes may be injected into the area
to show the outline of a ganglion.
How are Ganglions
Treated?
Ganglions are often difficult to treat without surgery—but
nonsurgical methods may be helpful in relieving some of your symptoms.
Nonsurgical Care
- Pads placed around the ganglion can ease
pressure
and friction.
- Fluid removal may also relieve symptoms,
though
ganglions may recur.
- Limiting movements or activities that increase
pain may bring relief.
- Icing the ganglion for 15—20 minutes
may temporarily relieve inflammation and pain.
- If your inflammation is severe, your podiatrist
may treat your symptoms with medication.
Will I Need Surgery?
If a ganglion is causing ongoing or severe pain, your podiatrist
may recommend surgery. The entire ganglion wall is removed during
the procedure; some surrounding tissue may also be removed.
After Surgery
You may feel pain, swelling, numbness, or tingling for several weeks
following surgery You’ll probably be able to walk soon afterward,
though your foot may need to be wrapped or in a cast. Be sure to
see your podiatrist if you notice any problems in the future. Although
surgery is usually successful, there is a chance that the ganglion
will recur.
Consultant: Brad L. Naylor, DPM, MS With contributions
by: Stephen R. Doms, DPM, Lori J. Hillman, DPM & Richard O.
Lundeen, DPM
This information is not intended as a substitute
for professional health care.
©1994 by Krames Communications
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