Bizarre Lump Seems to Shift Between Wrists
I’m a 35-year-old man weighing 235 lbs, and I’ve been dealing with issues in both wrists for several years now. My medical history includes treatment for depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and gastrointestinal discomfort, for which I take bupropion, buspirone, losartan, and omeprazole. A few years back, I noticed a peculiar lump forming on my left wrist. If I recall correctly, its emergence coincided with an exercise-related injury; a particularly painful push-up seemed to trigger its development. This lump is quite sensitive to pressure and has been associated with joint weakness and discomfort. Activities that put strain on that wrist, like playing the guitar, would lead to intense soreness the following day. After a visit to my primary care physician, it was identified as a ganglion cyst. I was then sent to an orthopedic specialist who barely examined it, merely acknowledged the cyst diagnosis in my records, and advised there was nothing to be done since surgical intervention could risk nerve damage. The recommendation was simply to cope with it. That appointment took place back in January, and surprisingly, the lump has been gradually diminishing! I didn’t notice the exact moment it started to fade, but now, as of July, it seems to have entirely vanished. Oddly enough, I’ve noticed a similar lump developing on my right wrist in the exact same spot! I’m curious about the possibility of cysts appearing in such unusual patterns. Is it normal for one to seemingly "move" from one wrist to another like this? Can I anticipate that the new one will also disappear in time? Could there be an alternative explanation for this phenomenon? Am I possibly injuring a tendon in that area? Cheers!
Answers (1)
7/23/2025, 4:02:04 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the appearance of lumps on your wrists, especially when they seem to move or develop in patterns. Here's a summary of the key points and guidance regarding your situation.
Main Points:
- Ganglion Cysts Are Common: These lumps, like the one you've described, are often harmless fluid-filled sacs that can develop near joints or tendons, especially following trauma or repetitive use.
- Movement Between Wrists: It is possible for ganglion cysts to appear in different locations, including appearing to shift from one wrist to another, particularly if there are similar aggravating factors (for instance, repetitive movements).
- Self-Resolution: Many ganglion cysts tend to resolve on their own over time, like what you've experienced with the cyst on your left wrist.
Explanation:
Ganglion cysts typically arise from joint tissues and can vary in size. They are often related to joint or tendon irritation, and your activity level, such as playing guitar, might contribute to their formation. The cysts can indeed diminish or disappear completely, which seems to be what you are experiencing with your left wrist. The new lump on the right wrist could be another ganglion cyst, particularly if you use that wrist similarly or have had prior injuries.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the new lump. Note any changes in size, pain, or weakness in your right wrist while you continue your usual activities.
- Modify Activities: If certain activities cause discomfort or strain on your wrists, consider modifying your routines to reduce stress on those joints (e.g., adjusting your guitar playing posture or technique).
- Pain Management: If the new lump becomes painful or if you notice significant weakness or limits in movement, consider over-the-counter pain relief options like ibuprofen.
- Self-Care: Engage in wrist-strengthening exercises and stretches to maintain flexibility and support tendon health. Be sure to give your wrists adequate rest between activities.
- Follow-Up Observation: If you see no improvement or if the symptoms worsen significantly, it might be wise to request a more thorough evaluation, possibly imaging, to rule out other conditions.
It's great to hear that your initial cyst has improved, and hopefully, the same will happen with the new lump. If you have more questions or need further clarification about your symptoms, please reach out!
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