These symptoms indicate a ganglion on the wrist | Ganglion on the wrist

These symptoms indicate a ganglion on the wrist

A ganglion on the wrist is mainly characterized by a swelling. Depending on the type of stress, this can occur on the flexor side as well as on the extensor side of the wrist. Usually it is pea-sized, but it can also be more impressive.

Classically, a ganglion is filled with liquid and therefore feels very elastic. In addition, the ganglion often causes pain in the affected area. These are often motion-dependent.

A ganglion can also cause movement restrictions, both due to pain and mechanical blockage. Pain is the main symptom of a ganglion on the wrist and is, along with the typical bump, the most important indication of the origin of the pain. Pain usually occurs around the ganglion and can sometimes radiate into the hand or forearm.

The ganglion is also very sensitive to pressure. Movement restrictions caused by the ganglion are also often pain-related. If the ganglion is located on the extensor side of the wrist, affected persons have pain especially when the hand is overstretched.

In contrast, a ganglion on the flexor side causes pain mainly when the wrist is bent. If the ganglion becomes particularly large, it can also put pressure on important nerves and vessels that run along the wrist. Vascular constrictions lead to reduced blood flow to the hand and fingers and can thus cause tissue damage that causes pain.

If the nerves are compressed by the ganglion, the typical nerve pain and discomfort occurs. Tingling or numbness are also typical symptoms when the nerves are affected. Particularly on the flexor side of the wrist, the ganglion can constrict various tendons and muscles and thus cause painful restrictions in movement and reduced strength.

The ganglion on the wrist manifests itself as a distinct bump or swelling. By shifting fluid from the joint space into the ganglion, it can swell.When the hand is moved, the joint gap is reduced, which displaces the fluid. This fluid is pushed into the ganglion through the connecting stem, and the ganglion expands.

When the hand is returned to its original position, the ganglion is reduced again. Over a longer period of time, however, a ganglion can also increase in size overall. This increase in size is caused by further strain on the wrist.