Thursday, October 22, 2009

Ganglions

Have you ever heard of a Ganglion? I have but never had seen one.But guess what, I have had a ganglion. This strange cyst gave me no pain yet it continued to grow bigger over the month and a half.I am happy to say that this ganglion has gone.
Here is more information for you .

Ganglion cysts often develop around the hand or wrist (wrist ganglion cyst), however it is not uncommon to see development of ganglion cysts around the foot (foot ganglion cyst).

Other areas where ganglion cysts can be seen include areas both in and around the joints of the ankle, knee, hip, elbow, shoulder and spine.

A ganglion cyst is not malignant. Ganlions are benign lumps filled with a thick, fatty fluid similar in consistency to jelly. Ganglions are generally painless unless they irritate joints, surrounding nerves or other structures. This is when they can cause some pain and discomfort.


What causes a ganglion cyst to form?
The cause of ganglion cysts is not entirely clear, however, it is thought that activities or occupations causing overuse of particular joints is the primary cause of ganglions.

The soft tissues or capsule surrounding a joint may become inflamed and swollen with lubricating fluid. The membrane surrounding a tendon may also tear following overuse type injuries. This could cause fluid to leak out into a small soft tissue sac which continues to swell and eventually forms a ganglion cyst.

Activities involving any form of repetitive overuse of joints or tendons can cause ganglions of the foot. These include skiing, jumping, running and other contact sports.


How is a ganglion cyst diagnosed?
Physical examination and radiographic examination are performed often in conjunction with an ultrasound scan and sometimes magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The fluid within the ganglion may also be removed for evaluation.


How is a ganglion cyst treated?
Some ganglion cysts spontaneously disappear without any treatment or with rest.

Ganglion cyst treatment usually involves rest and/or splinting the affected joint.

Aspiration of the fluid is sometimes necessary and in situations where the ganglions persist, then ganglion cyst surgery may need to be performed to remove the ganglion. Ganglion cyst removal should be discussed with your Doctor or Podiatrist if pain persists.


What can I do to prevent ganglion cyst development?
Warm-up and cool-down exercises which help to improve muscle strength and flexibility may help in preventing the formation of ganglion cysts.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

New Website

The frosty mornings of fall are here.
Refreshing to many and others fear the onset of winter.With the cooler weather, brings a change of clothing and of course your shoes and boots.
Make sure your footwear is fitted well. Take time to select the right shoe for your feet. It can be just as risky to have shoes too big and of course too small.Wrong fitted shoes can creat all types of problems for your entire foot.
Good traction to keep you stable in the snow. Unsure what shoes are best for your feet.Your questions are welcome.
Please be aware of my new website.