Symptoms. Ganglion cysts may cause no pain although they may put pressure on nerves passing through the joint in which case they may cause pain, muscle weakness, and a tingling sensation. The cyst itself looks like a large lump ranging in size from a pea to up to an inch in diameter. The size of the cyst may change as using the joint repeatedly causes the cyst to grow in size. Ganglion cysts usually develop on the joints or tendons of the hand or wrist, usually on the top side of the wrist. They may occur near other joints such as the ankles or even the top of the foot. The cyst may feel spongy or firm depending on its size.
