Ganglion cysts are one of the most common benign (non-cancerous) lumps seen in children and teens. They may look concerning, but in most cases they are harmless and often go away without any treatment. At Children’s Orthopaedic & Scoliosis Surgery Associates (COSSA), our pediatric orthopaedic specialists evaluate and treat these cysts with care, comfort, and reassurance for both parents and patients.
A ganglion cyst forms when fluid from a joint or tendon sheath collects in one spot, creating a soft lump. These cysts most often appear on the back of the wrist, but they can also show up on the palm side, fingers, or even the feet.
They usually happen after small injuries, overuse, or simple wear and tear in the tissue around the joint. Ganglion cysts aren’t dangerous or cancerous—they just take up space. Many don’t cause pain, though some can press on nearby tissues and become uncomfortable or limit movement.
If you notice a bump on your child’s wrist or hand, it’s best to have it checked by a healthcare provider to confirm it’s a ganglion cyst and discuss the right next steps.
If you notice a lump on your child’s wrist or hand, it’s a good idea to have it checked by a healthcare provider to make sure it’s a ganglion cyst and to talk about the best way to care for it.
Most ganglion cysts improve without treatment—about four out of five will eventually go away on their own.
If the cyst isn’t painful, doctors often recommend simple observation and activity modification. Wearing a brace or splint may help rest the joint, and mild discomfort can usually be managed with anti-inflammatory medicine.
If the cyst becomes more persistent or painful, the next step may be aspiration, where fluid is drawn out with a needle. This can relieve pressure, but the cyst sometimes comes back (about a 50% chance).
When symptoms don’t improve, or the cyst grows larger or becomes painful, surgery might be advised. The procedure is safe, effective, and recurrence is uncommon—roughly 10% of cases.
Ganglion cysts can look alarming but are rarely serious. They may grow or shrink depending on activity level, and many disappear naturally. Pain is uncommon unless the cyst presses on a nerve or tendon.
Avoid squeezing or trying to pop the cyst—this can cause infection or make things worse. If your child experiences pain, numbness, or has trouble moving their hand or wrist, contact your provider.
If surgery is needed, recovery is usually quick. Physical therapy may be recommended afterward to help restore strength and movement. And while the appearance of a lump can be concerning, open conversations with your healthcare team can help reassure both parents and children.
At COSSA, our board-certified pediatric orthopaedic surgeons provide individualized care for every patient. Whether your child’s ganglion cyst needs simple observation or surgical removal, our goal is to help them stay active, comfortable, and confident. To schedule an appointment call (727) 898-2663.