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Condition

Ganglion cyst

The most common lump in the hand. A fluid-filled cyst that often appears on the back of the wrist. It can change size, may be painless, and is not cancer.

Common triggers

  • Joint or tendon-sheath irritation
  • More common in women between 15 and 40
  • Sometimes follows minor wrist trauma

When to seek care

  • Pain or numbness from the cyst
  • Rapid changes in size
  • Cyst that interferes with hand function or appearance

Watch a curated demo

Patient education · Ganglion cyst
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6 Exercises to Improve Wrist Joint Mobility and Range of Motion · Rehab Science · verified 2026-04-24Adjacent topic — general wrist mobility. Ganglion cysts vary; ask your provider before pushing range with a painful cyst.Patient education only — not a replacement for advice from your clinician.

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