Ganglion

by Dr. Rajesh Shah

Definition: Ganglion is a small sac filled with fluid and is formed from the lining of a joint or tendon. It usually forms when the tissues surrounding certain joints become inflamed and swell up with lubricating fluid.

     

Causes of Ganglion: It is generally caused due to some kind of trauma to the joint but the cause may not be evident in all cases. Ganglion formation is more common in women (M:F = 1:3) and 70% occur in the late teens and young adulthood. Some joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis have been associated with ganglion cysts. Occupational factors play an important role in the development of ganglion. Those occupations that require workers to overuse certain joints such as the wrist and fingers, for instance typewriters, pose a risk for ganglion cysts.

Symptoms: Most commonly, ganglion formation is seen on the wrist (usually the back side) and fingers, but it can also develop on the shoulders, elbows and knees. Ganglia are usually painless swellings that can form around any joint. However, the condition can become painful when the ganglion presses nerves. This pain can restrict the range of movements and activity of an individual. They can increase in size or can disappear spontaneously.

Suggestion about homeopathic treatment: Largely ganglion is labeled as a surgical condition; however, in light of homoeopathy it can be termed as medico-surgical condition. Surgeries done for ganglion are associated with complications like nerve damage, stiffness of joints and recurrence. Interestingly, homoeopathy treatment can effectively take care of ganglion and it can be the best way to avoid surgeon’s knife. Constitutional homoeopathy medicine prescribed on basis of symptoms of the disease as well as individual’s personality, improves re-absorption of fluid from the ganglion. In addition, with homoeopathy treatment chance of recurrence is minimal. I very strongly feel that for ganglion, option of surgery should be sought only after fair trial of homoeopathy. The only downside of homoeopathy is that as compared to surgery it is less rapid. It usually takes 2-5 months of treatment to get favorable results since treatment is internal and not just local.

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