Where Are Ganglion Cysts Located?

Location. Ganglion cysts most commonly develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. The next most common locations are the ankles and feet. These cysts can occur near other joints as well.

How do you tell if a lump is a ganglion?

Symptoms of a ganglion cyst

Ganglion cysts look and feel like a smooth lump under the skin. They're made up of a thick, jelly-like fluid called synovial fluid, which surrounds joints and tendons to lubricate and cushion them during movement.

What causes ganglion cysts to flare up?

Experts do not know exactly how ganglion cysts form. However, it appears that: Joint stress may play a role, as the cysts often develop in sites of overuse or trauma. They may develop following a leak of synovial fluid from a joint into the surrounding area.