Foot cysts are non-cancerous growths on the foot or ankle that can cause pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes. A common treatment option is to remove the cyst. The experienced podiatrists Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, and Dr. Shruti Vyas at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg, VA, treat foot cysts and can recommend the right removal option for you.

Types of Foot Cysts

A cyst is a soft mass on the foot that looks like a lump or bump. Cysts are often filled with fluid but can also contain soft tissue, blood, or other materials. Several different types of cysts can develop on the feet. Some common types include:

• Ganglion cysts
• Synovial cysts
• Plantar fibromas
• Inclusion cysts
• Mucoid cysts

Causes of Foot Cysts 

Several different factors can cause a cyst to develop on the foot. Typical causes include:

• An infection
• Inflammation
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Clogged oil glands
• Injury/trauma

Symptoms of Foot Cysts 

A bump or lump on the foot or ankle is the most noticeable sign of a foot cyst. Cysts commonly develop on top of the foot, but can also form on the bottom or on the ankle. Cysts vary in size and shape and can grow larger over time. Common symptoms associated with foot cysts include:

• Lump on the foot
• Dull ache or pain
• Burning or tingling sensation
• Discomfort when wearing shoes
• Limited range of motion

Foot Cyst Removal Options 

Foot cysts can be treated through various methods. Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and discomfort. Wearing padding, splints, or braces can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by the cyst. Often, the most common method of treatment is removal of the cyst. The skilled providers at our office in Williamsburg, VA, perform foot cyst removal and can recommend the best option for you based on the size of the cyst and other factors.

Foot cyst removal options include:

• Aspiration to drain fluids from the cyst
• Outpatient surgical removal
• Arthroscopic surgery
• Open surgery

If a cyst has developed on your foot, we can help. Call Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg, VA, at (757) 220-3311 to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, or Dr. Shruti Vyas, to learn more about removing a foot cyst. We also have a location in Hampton, VA, that can be reached at (757) 224-7605.