Ganglion Cyst of the Foot

Ganglion cysts typically arise due to:

• Joint irritation or repetitive stress
• Tendon or ligament overuse
• Prior injury or trauma
• Fluid leakage from surrounding structures (joint capsule or tendon sheath)

As the body produces joint fluid to lubricate tendons and joints, some of this fluid may accumulate and form a cyst when it escapes into nearby tissues through a weakened capsule.

• Visible lump or bump under the skin
• Tenderness, burning, or pressure pain, especially with shoes
• Fluctuation in size — cysts may shrink, enlarge, or temporarily disappear
• Numbness or tingling (if pressing on a nerve)
• Discomfort when walking or wearing certain shoes

Ganglion cysts are typically benign and not dangerous, but they can interfere with comfort, mobility, and shoe wear — especially when located in pressure-prone areas of the foot.

Our foot and ankle specialists perform a hands-on evaluation and may use:

• Ultrasound to distinguish the cyst from solid masses
• X-rays to assess for joint issues or bone spurs
• MRI in complex cases or when the cyst is deep or recurrent

Treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of symptoms.

Non-Surgical Options:

• Observation – if the cyst is painless and not interfering with activity
• Footwear modification or padding
• Aspiration – draining the fluid with a needle (may include corticosteroid injection to reduce recurrence)
• Immobilization – limiting activity to reduce irritation and fluid buildup

Note: Aspiration may reduce size temporarily, but recurrence is common.

Surgical Treatment:

If the cyst is recurrent, painful, or interfering with daily function, surgical excision may be recommended to remove the cyst and seal the joint or tendon sheath it stems from.

Our podiatric surgeons use precise, minimally invasive techniques whenever possible to reduce downtime and optimize cosmetic outcomes.

If you’ve noticed a bump on the top of your foot or are experiencing pressure pain with footwear, a ganglion cyst may be the cause. Early evaluation helps determine whether you need simple monitoring, non-invasive treatment, or surgical care.

Schedule a visit with SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors today at our Santa Monica or Cedars-Sinai location — and get back on your feet with confidence.