Ever noticed a strange bump on the top or side of your foot that seems to come and go? It might be soft, squishy, or even a little firm. You press on it, and maybe it shifts a bit. It’s not always painful, but it’s definitely not supposed to be there.

If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with something called a ganglion cyst.

Let’s break down what that is, how to spot one, and what you can do about it.

What Is a Ganglion Cyst, Anyway?

A ganglion cyst is a fluid-filled lump that forms near a joint or tendon. Think of it like a tiny balloon filled with jelly. It’s most common on the wrist, but the foot and ankle are also popular spots—especially on the top of the foot.

These cysts form when fluid leaks out of a joint or tendon sheath and collects in one spot. It’s your body’s way of reacting to pressure, irritation, or overuse.

How to Know If It’s a Ganglion Cyst

Here are a few signs that the lump on your foot might be a ganglion cyst:

1. Soft or Squishy Texture

It usually feels like a small water balloon under your skin. Sometimes it's firm, but often a little squishy.

2. Moves Slightly When Pressed

These cysts are connected to the joint or tendon, but they can sometimes shift a little when you press on them.

3. Grows and Shrinks

Ganglion cysts often change size. One day it’s noticeable, the next day it’s barely there.

4. May or May Not Hurt

Some ganglion cysts are totally painless. Others may cause aching or pressure—especially if they’re pressing on a nerve or rubbing against a shoe.

5. Located Near a Joint

If the lump is right over a joint—especially on the top of your foot near your ankle—it could be a ganglion cyst.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

If you’ve had the lump for a while, or if it’s painful, growing, or interfering with walking or wearing shoes, it’s time to get it checked out. At our West Haven podiatry clinic, we often see these types of bumps and can help you figure out exactly what’s going on.

Other conditions can look like a ganglion cyst but may be more serious—like bone spurs, soft tissue tumors, or even infections. That’s why it’s best to let a foot and ankle specialist take a look.

What Can Be Done About It?

Here’s what treatment might look like:

• Observation – If it’s not painful and isn’t getting in your way, we might just keep an eye on it.

• Footwear Changes – Switching to shoes that don’t press on the area can help reduce irritation.

• Draining the Cyst – Sometimes we can use a needle to remove the fluid. (Keep in mind, it can come back.)

• Surgical Removal – If the cyst is painful, persistent, or keeps returning, minor surgery may be needed to remove it completely.

At West Haven Foot and Ankle Center, we’ll walk you through your options so you can choose what feels right for you.

Final Thoughts

If you notice a lump on your foot that just won’t go away, don’t ignore it. It may be harmless—but it’s always better to know for sure.