A ganglion cyst is a tumor or swelling on top of a joint or the covering of a tendon (tissue that connects muscle to bone). It looks like a sac of liquid (cyst). Inside the cyst is a thick, sticky, clear, colorless, jellylike material. Depending on the size, cysts may feel firm or spongy.

Ganglion Cyst Symptoms

The ganglion cyst usually appears as a bump (mass) that changes size.

• It is usually soft, anywhere from 1-3 cm in diameter, and doesn't move.

• The swelling may appear over time or appear suddenly, may get smaller in size, and may even go away, only to come back at another time.

• Most ganglion cysts cause some degree of pain, usually following acute or repetitive trauma, but up to 35% are without symptoms except for appearance.

• If pain is present, it is usually chronic and made worse by joint motion.

• When the cyst is connected to a tendon, you may feel a sense of weakness in the affected finger.