- Are lumps always cancer? No, and ganglion cysts are one example. This sac of fluid originates in a tendon or joint and it is benign. It may get bigger, like a cancerous tumor, but that is not due to abnormal cell activity. It is just the way these puzzling growths seem to behave.
The exact causes are not known, but a previous injury or a bulge in the covering of the tendon could be a factor, as the fluid in the sac is very similar. Osteoarthritis is also associated with them, and the cyst can be more painful when movement of the joint it is attached to increases.
At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle Center in Colorado, our foot specialists may not know why this benign growth formed on your foot, but we are certainly expert at treating it. Immobilization to reduce joint movement, aspirating the fluid from the cyst with a needle, and removing the entire cyst and its stem surgically are the main treatment options. If you are bothered by a soft lump on your foot or ankle, give us a call at (303) 423-2520 and set up an appointment at our Wheat Ridge, Golden, Evergreen, or Granby, CO location.
