Many of us have likely encountered a small, oval-shaped bump on our hands or knees. These cysts, known as ganglion cysts, come in varying sizes, filled with a thick, spongy substance, and are mobile under the skin. While they may seem threatening, they are generally harmless and easily treatable.

“Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps that can develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists, hands, and sometimes even in the knees. They are benign and do not commonly lead to complications in most cases. However, when complications arise, they can be irritatingly painful and debilitating, requiring the right ganglion cyst knee treatment,” explains Dr Niraj Vora, a leading knee surgeon in Mumbai and a specialist in ganglion cysts.

Ganglion cysts are more common on the tendons and joints of the hands but can also occur on the knees. In weight-bearing joints like the knee, these cysts may pose problems and result in unique symptoms and complications if not treated properly. In this blog, with insights from knee replacement surgeon Dr. Niraj Vora, we explore ganglion cyst knee symptoms and treatment options to enhance awareness about this condition.

Ganglion Cysts on the Knee – Symptoms:

A noticeable, visible lump on the knee is a giveaway symptom of ganglion cysts. In most cases, cysts may not cause any problems, but when they do, they can be quite debilitating for the patient. Here are some symptoms that a problematic ganglion cyst can cause:

Pain: If the ganglion cyst happens to be near nerves or tissues, it may trigger pain of varying magnitudes.

Change in Size: The size of cysts also varies, from small to large enough to compress nearby nerves, blood vessels, and other structures, which can result in weakness, pain, and even numbness.

Limited Range of Movement: When the cysts become large, they can interfere with knee joint function and movement, limiting the overall range of motion and causing stiffness or difficulty in moving the joint.

Recurrence: “If the underlying condition of ganglion cysts is not addressed, the cysts usually recur, meaning all the above symptoms of pain, limited range of motion, and nerve compression can reoccur”, says Ganglion cysts specialist and knee replacement surgeon in Mumbai Dr Niraj Vora.

Treatment for Ganglion Cysts on the Knee:

If ganglion cysts on the knee do not cause any symptoms, they are monitored and observed until they resolve on their own, which often occurs. However, in cases where symptoms are present, appropriate treatment is recommended based on the severity of symptoms. “The most important part of evaluating ganglion cysts is assessing the severity of symptoms and finding the underlying cause of the cysts. Upon carefully assessing both factors, a plan of treatment for ganglion cysts is designed and implemented,” says knee replacement surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Niraj Vora.

Immobilization and rest are suggested in some cases, particularly for cysts related to overuse. Aspiration can be used to drain the cyst’s fluid, along with corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. If conservative methods fail to adequately address the issue, surgery is considered to remove the cysts, followed by physical therapy to improve joint mobility and strength.