Ganglion cysts are benign soft tissue lumps. They’re usually found in your wrist, but in rare occasions can also appear in your elbow. Although 58 percent of these cysts will resolve without treatment, many people opt for surgical removal.

Ganglion cysts are often painless and need no treatment. Your health care provider might recommend watching the cyst for any changes. If the cyst causes pain or gets in the way of joint movement, you may need to: Keep the joint from moving. Activity can cause a ganglion cyst to grow.

Ganglion cysts are small bumps that can develop on your hands, wrists or ankles. They can be uncomfortable or even painful, but they are usually not cancerous. If you have a bump, you should have it evaluated by a health care provider. That way, you can work together to come up with a treatment plan.