Why That Lumpy Spot on Your Foot Might Be a Ganglion Cyst

Ever found a weird lump on your foot that wasn’t there before? Maybe it feels soft, a bit squishy, or even moves when you press it. You might be wondering, “What is that?”

Well, you could be dealing with something called a ganglion cyst.

Don’t worry—it sounds scarier than it is.

So, What Is a Ganglion Cyst?

A ganglion cyst is a small, fluid-filled lump that usually appears near joints or tendons. Most people spot them around their wrists, but they can also pop up on the feet—especially on the top or near the ankle.

They’re not dangerous, but they can be annoying.

What Does It Feel Like?

• A soft bump or lump under the skin

• Might move a little when you touch it

• Can be painless—but not always

• Might ache, throb, or feel tight if it’s pressing on a nerve or shoe

Some people say it comes and goes. Others notice it gets bigger after a long day on their feet.

What Causes Ganglion Cysts?

We’re still not 100% sure why they show up, but they often come from:

• Repeated stress on a joint

• Irritation or overuse of a tendon

• Past injury to the area

If your job, sport, or daily routine puts pressure on your feet, you're more likely to see one appear.

Can It Be Something Else?

Yes—there are other foot lumps that look similar, like:

• Bone spurs

• Lipomas (fatty lumps)

• Bursitis

• Warts or calluses

That’s why it’s a good idea to get any new lump checked out. Just to be sure.

How a Podiatrist Can Help

We see foot lumps like this all the time at the clinic. Here’s what we do:

Check It Properly

We’ll look at how it feels, moves, and behaves. Sometimes we use ultrasound or refer you for imaging to get a better picture.

Relieve the Pressure

If it’s getting squished in your shoes, we can suggest better footwear or padding to stop it rubbing or hurting.

Treatment Options

In some cases, we may recommend:

• Draining the fluid (if needed)

• Sending you for steroid injections

• Or referring to a specialist if it needs removing

Most people won’t need surgery—but if you do, we’ll guide you through what to expect.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’ve found a lump on your foot and you’re not sure what it is, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. Whether it’s a ganglion cyst or something else, getting the right diagnosis is the first step to feeling better.

Book in to see us—we’ll take a look and let you know your options.